President’s Message - Now More Than Ever: Investing in Institutions That Sustain Democracy
Volunteer for Cal-ICMA
Now More Than Ever: Investing in Institutions That Sustain Democracy
At a time when trust in our democratic institutions feels fragile, the role of professional local government managers is more important than ever. The work we do as public professionals is not just about budgets, ordinances, or contracts, it is about preserving the foundation of democracy in our communities. It is about ensuring that residents can look to their local governments with confidence, knowing that the institutions serving them are ethical, professional, and effective.
Throughout our careers, we accumulate degrees, credentials, references, and experiences that shape us into stronger leaders. But whether you are an emerging professional just beginning your journey or a seasoned manager nearing retirement, there is no better way to invest in the profession than by volunteering your time to strengthen the very institution that supports you—Cal-ICMA, our state affiliate of the International City/County Management Association.
Cal-ICMA exists to support you, the public professional. Together, we guide communities toward their better angels, serving residents, elected officials, and the talented staff we have the privilege to mentor. We provide not only resources but also a professional family, one that sustains, inspires, and prepares us to hand off leadership to the next generation.
Next month, Cal-ICMA will open its Call for Volunteers. We invite all members to step forward and serve on our committees, where your time, passion, and ideas can make a lasting difference. Our committees include:
Budget Committee
Ethics Committee
Manager Support Initiatives (MSI) Committee
Marketing and Communications Committee
Nominations, Governance, and Membership Committee
Scholarships and Events Committee
Sponsorship and Corporate Partners Committee
Talent Initiative Committee
We are seeking volunteers at all levels of involvement, and in some cases, new Vice Chairs. To serve, all you need is a passion for the profession. To serve as a voting member of the board (such as a committee chair), you must also be a voting ICMA member. Full details are in our bylaws, and more information is available on our website.
As Cal-ICMA transitions into becoming a 501(c)(6) organization, there has never been a better moment to get involved. By volunteering, you are not just supporting the work of our committees, you are helping to build a legacy of trust in local government that will serve future generations of professionals, elected officials, and citizens alike.
Let us commit ourselves to this shared mission: investing in the people and institutions that have defined our careers and ensure that our communities can continue to trust the governments that serve them so they can live their best lives.
With gratitude and resolve,
Dr. Peter Pirnejad, ICMA-CM
President, Cal-ICMA
City Manager, Town of Los Altos Hills