Municipal Leaders: Develop Faster, Lead Stronger, Build Better
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Episode 356 of The HaltingWinter Podcast
Brought to you by Tyler Technologies
Some leaders make an impact measured in months. Others leave a legacy measured in decades.
For 33 years, Mike Van Milligen has served as the City Manager of Dubuque, Iowa, helping lead one of the most remarkable community transformations in local government. During his tenure, the city rebounded from economic decline, revitalized its historic downtown and riverfront, invested in neighborhoods, strengthened partnerships across the community, and became a five-time All-America City.
Those accomplishments didn’t happen because of one bold decision. They happened because of thousands of thoughtful ones.
In Episode 356 of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Mike reflects on the leadership philosophy that guided more than three decades of public service and shares the four principles that became the foundation of his work.
Curiosity fuels growth.
Instead of assuming they already have the answers, the best leaders continue asking better questions. Curiosity creates a culture of learning, encourages innovation, and keeps organizations from settling into “the way we’ve always done it.”
As Mike shares, continuous improvement begins with leaders who remain lifelong learners.
Residents don’t expect government to solve every challenge overnight. They do expect leaders who care enough to engage, listen, and work toward solutions.
Rather than focusing on blame or bureaucracy, Mike encourages public servants to approach every challenge with a simple question:
“How do we solve this together?”
That mindset builds trust both inside the organization and throughout the community.
No city succeeds alone.
One of the defining themes throughout Mike’s career has been his commitment to building strong partnerships—with schools, businesses, nonprofits, residents, and neighboring organizations.
Communities accomplish far more when leaders invest in relationships before they need them.
As Mike puts it, anything that can be done can usually be done better in partnership with others.
Accountability isn’t about assigning blame.
It’s about creating an environment where everyone is committed to learning, improving, and helping one another succeed.
One of the most refreshing moments in this conversation comes as Mike explains that accountability should flow in every direction—including upward. Leaders should welcome honest feedback just as much as they expect it from others.
That kind of humility creates healthier teams and stronger organizations.
One of the most powerful parts of this conversation has little to do with budgets, infrastructure, or strategic plans. When asked what he hopes people remember most about his career, Mike doesn’t mention awards or accomplishments.
He simply says he hopes people know he cared.
In a profession often defined by constant demands, public criticism, and difficult decisions, that’s a powerful reminder that leadership is ultimately about people.
If you’re looking for practical leadership wisdom grounded in decades of real-world experience, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.
Listen to Episode 356: Mike Van Milligen: The Four Principles of Lasting Leadership
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.
