Municipal Leaders: Develop Faster, Lead Stronger, Build Better
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Episode 361 of The HaltingWinter Podcast
Brought to you by Tyler Technologies
Every leader has experienced it. An employee follows the process, checks every box, and completes exactly what’s required…but something is missing.
Initiative. Creativity. Ownership.
In Episode 361 of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Long Beach, California City Manager Tom Modica explains why the difference between compliance and commitment may be the most important leadership challenge facing local government today.
As Tom puts it, when people don’t understand the purpose behind their work, leaders often get what he calls “malicious compliance.” Employees do what they’re told because they have to, not because they believe in the mission.
That simple insight becomes the foundation for a much broader conversation about leadership.
Tom shares the journey that took him from seasonal Parks & Recreation jobs in Tucson, Arizona, to leading one of the nation’s largest cities. Along the way, he reflects on the value of embracing uncomfortable opportunities, learning through failure, leading with humility, and building organizational cultures where people don’t just perform their jobs—they own them.
The conversation also offers an inside look at leading Long Beach through the COVID-19 pandemic, preparing the city for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and managing one of the country’s most dynamic municipal organizations.
Whether you’re a city manager, assistant city manager, department director, or emerging leader, this episode is a reminder that leadership is about more than making decisions. It’s about helping people understand why their work matters.
Because when people believe in the mission, compliance becomes commitment, and employees become ambassadors for their organization.
Listen to Episode 361: Tom Modica: Why Compliance Isn’t Commitment
This episode is sponsored by Tyler Technologies, the leader in empowering the public sector with software solutions that connect data, streamline operations, and improve service delivery. From AI to budgeting solutions, Tyler helps local governments build stronger, more resilient communities. Learn more at tylertech.com/winter →
The MLDC is where local government leaders go to grow, together. It’s the fastest-growing leadership development community designed specifically for the public sector, now paired with a comprehensive 9-month Leadership & Culture Program for those ready to elevate their leadership and their organization. Learn more at haltingwinter.com/mldc →
The HaltingWinter Podcast shines a spotlight on the people behind our cities and counties. Through candid conversations with local government leaders from across the nation, host Seth Winterhalter explores the journeys, challenges, and ideas shaping stronger communities while inspiring the next generation of public servants.
