Gov Business Review: Specials Magazine

My path into local government began with an early interest in politics and public service. From the beginning, I felt a strong connection to the purpose of public service. Local government in particular offers a unique opportunity to sit at the intersection of policy, community, and everyday life, doing generational work that directly influences how people experience their communities. Throughout my career, I worked alongside mentors and leaders who challenged me to grow. They encouraged me to take on complex projects, present to boards and commissions early in my career, and stretch my capabilities in new ways. Those opportunities helped build my confidence and reinforced my commitment to public service. Today, those experiences guide how I lead. Leadership is about creating an environment where staff feel supported, trusted, and empowered. When people are encouraged to take risks and learn from mistakes, organizations become stronger and more adaptable. I have always loved coming to work and hope to foster a culture where every team member feels the same way. Building Teams through Empathy and Trust As Town Manager of Truckee, my leadership philosophy is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and a long-term vision for the community. I believe empathy and kindness are not soft skills but essential foundations for effective leadership. Public service involves navigating complex issues affecting people’s lives, and approaching those challenges with humility and respect strengthens teamwork and decision-making. When I stepped into the role in October 2020, our community was navigating significant uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic. Within weeks of my arrival, additional shutdowns made it difficult to connect with residents and colleagues through traditional community meetings and gatherings.