Municipal Leaders: Develop Faster, Lead Stronger, Build Better
Every week, you’ll get insights and actionable steps to help you navigate personal growth and professional success.
What does it take to lead a city with deep ties to American nuclear history? How can municipal leaders build thriving organizational cultures while maintaining a healthy work-life balance? Our latest podcast episode dives into these questions and more with Jon Amundson, City Manager of Richland, Washington.
Jon’s journey into municipal leadership began with a simple Cub Scout requirement: attend a city council meeting. That early exposure sparked a lifelong passion for local government that eventually led him to the city manager’s office in Richland—a city with a unique connection to the Manhattan Project and ongoing nuclear research and remediation.
“I remember even as a Cub Scout… attending a city council meeting. And almost since that point forward, I always had an interest in local government,” Jon shares in the interview.
One of the most valuable takeaways from our conversation is Jon’s innovative approach to leadership development. His “Core Leadership Program” in Richland features:
This multi-tiered approach ensures that leadership growth happens at every level of the organization—a model that any municipality could adapt to their own needs.
Perhaps most refreshing is Jon’s candid discussion about balancing professional responsibilities with family commitments. In an era where burnout threatens to drive talent away from public service, Jon offers practical wisdom:
“I recognize this meeting can occur without me. And there are definitely capable individuals at different levels of the organization that can drive this forward… because what’s most important at this time is attending that tennis match and being there for my son.”
Jon also shares insights about how the Tri-Cities region (Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco) collaborates rather than competes. From coordinating services (with Richland handling 911 dispatch while Kennewick manages the animal shelter) to celebrating when any city in the region lands a sought-after retailer, there are valuable lessons here for all municipal leaders about regional partnership.
Whether you’re a current city manager, an aspiring municipal leader, or someone interested in public service, this episode offers practical wisdom from someone successfully navigating the complex challenges of modern city management.
Listen to the full episode here
About HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions
Seth Winterhalter leads a team dedicated to building stronger cities through stronger leaders. Our coaching, consulting, and leadership development programs help municipal leaders thrive personally and professionally, creating lasting impact in their communities. Learn more about how we can strengthen your municipality at haltingwinter.com.
