Introducing: The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) - Save 50% During Launch Phase

The Leader’s Lens

Every week, you’ll get insights and actionable steps to help you navigate personal growth and professional success.

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Contrary to popular belief, statistics show that the average tenure of city managers isn’t shrinking as fast as your neighbor’s waist on Ozempic. But what if this seemingly positive trend masks a brutal reality?

Many city managers, especially those with families, may feel trapped in toxic positions, unable to “pack up and move at the drop of a hat.” This raises a crucial question: Are longer tenures always a good thing?

The truth is, many city managers are experiencing:

  • Burnout
  • Chronic stress
  • Blurred lines between personal and professional life
  • Toxic work relationships, especially with elected officials
  • Feelings of overwhelming failure with stalled projects and community infighting

Here’s the bottom line: Setting boundaries isn’t selfish — it’s a crucial act of leadership that benefits you, your team, and ultimately, the community you serve.

In our featured workshop, “Establishing Healthy Boundaries in Municipal Leadership,” you’ll discover:

  • Why boundaries are your secret weapon against burnout
  • How to say ‘no’ without guilt
  • Strategies to maintain integrity under pressure

Ready to lead with clarity and purpose, whether you stay or go? Let’s rewrite your leadership story.

Learn from the lessons I was taught in my 20 years of public service and learn how to thrive, not just survive, in municipal leadership.

Seth Winterhalter is President of HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions, dedicated to making stronger cities through stronger leaders. Through executive coaching, consulting, and the Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC), HaltingWinter helps city managers and municipal leaders transform their leadership impact and their organizational culture.