Resources for City Managers
Resources for City Managers
Use these documents to create customized educational materials specific to your community.
City managers are well-positioned to educate and engage our community while being advocates for the profession. This toolkit can be used when you are educating newly elected officials, presenting to community organizations or local schools, or onboarding new employees. We know that a more knowledgeable and informed community is better equipped to engage meaningfully and consistently.
Have a recommendation for something that has worked well for your community? Let us know! Email: icma@pdx.edu
City managers can use the following tools as a guide when presenting this Toolkit to your community.
Customizable PowerPoint Presentations
Visit K-12 schools in your community. Share resources like this toolkit or the PAWS Print: Discovering the World of Public Works or Today, I Made a Difference (ICMA Coloring Book) or the OCCMA City Activity Book and use this presentation guide.
Provide opportunities to serve on youth councils (see the City of Lake Oswego’s Youth Leadership Council)
Host a ‘students in government’ day where students host a mock election, meet with current officials, and tour local facilities.
Create internship opportunities for undergraduate students
Ensure your municipality attends college career fairs to promote the profession
Visit civic clubs, nonprofit organizations, or chambers of commerce to 1) provide information on local government and 2) encourage their involvement in youth education efforts.
Host a local official walking tour to meet residents, business owners, and visitors
City newsletter or accessible webpage (see North Plains 101)
Engage online to provide direct communication and information on current projects and initiatives. Examples include:
International City/County Management Association, "PM Article: A Push for Civic Education", May 2016. Retrieved from https://icma.org/articles/pm-magazine/pm-article-push-civic-education