In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert welcomes Valerie Lemmie, a seasoned expert in local government with over four decades of experience. Valerie shares her journey into local government, emphasizing her passion for ensuring equitable access to services and education for all citizens. She reflects on her family’s history and the importance of quality education, which fueled her desire to work in local government. Valerie discusses the challenges and rewards of her career, highlighting the significance of community engagement and the impact of local governance on everyday lives.
Takeaways
- “I chose local government rather than it choosing me.”
- “Working in local government was a passion for me.”
- “You cannot spend money you do not have.”
- “Every day you wake up and something hits you in the face.”
- “Democracy requires citizens to work together.”
- “You can make a difference in the lives of everyday people.”
- “It’s important to distinguish between policy and operations.”
- “We want to make certain that we’re making a positive impact.”
- “Civic education is critical to democracy.”
- “You need each other in local government.”