Improve your conversations by thinking about what the other person needs -- do they need advice or problem-solving, for instance, or do they just want to be heard? "My opinion might be well reasoned, deeply thoughtful, and based on years of experience, but it is still just my opinion," writes John Spence.

Officials in the Italian city of L'Aquila have partnered with Chinese communications firm ZTE to test 5G technology with the goal of improving earthquake alerts. "L'Aquila needs to offer powerful solutions when faced with new requirements that come as a consequence of the earthquake," says Mayor Pierluigi Biondi.

Hutchinson , Kan., city manager John Deardoff is considering options for how to replace the Atrium Hotel and Conference Center, which closed in December and left the city without conference space. The city is reportedly debating whether to buy and renew the existing facility or purchase something new.

The city of Barcelona, Spain, has declared a climate emergency, and officials have adopted 100 measures to help reduce carbon emissions by 50% by 2030. The city has warned that government action alone will not reach the goal and is urging residents to participate in greening efforts.

An alderman in Chicago has proposed a ban on the use of polystyrene takeout containers that would require restaurants to use recyclable or compostable containers for takeout and delivery orders. The proposed ordinance also calls for food sellers to have color-coded bins to separate recycling, compostables and trash.

Vendors of smart city infrastructure suggest fiscally strained communities should pursue private-public partnerships and work with city agencies to centralize their efforts and consider levying usage fees to fund their smart city initiatives. "This is a destination, not a journey. We're talking about decades and decades of investment," says George Karayannis of Panasonic's CityNow.

Haywood County, N.C., has launched a new wellness program for employees that includes a focus on preventive care, a nurse navigator, personal trainer, and dietitian. The county's emergency services department has had a partnership with a local hospital for the past two years, and Director Greg Shuping said it has led to a 60% reduction in on-the-job injuries.

City Council members in Stockton, Calif., last week voted unanimously to hire former Cincinnati manager Harry Black to the city's top post. "Stockton is a city on the rise and I look forward to working with the community, Mayor, Council and staff in the pursuit of the Stockton of the future," Black said in a news release.

Being a local government leader today is harder than ever, and there's a persistent challenge facing many managers in how they can lead their organizations and communities. So how are other local government leaders successful during their challenging moments? What strategies are they putting in place to drive a better community in 2020? At this year's 2020 ICMA Regional Conferences, the focus will be answering these questions and helping you and your community tackle its gnarly issues, as well as discussing key topics relevant to local government. Dates and locations of the US-based 2020 ICMA Regional Conferences vary. Learn More.

ICMA's Local Government Excellence Awards Program highlights outstanding contributions to the profession. Each year, ICMA typically recognizes at least 30 local government professionals as exemplifying excellence in local government but you can only be considered for an award if you are nominated! Through these awards, local government professionals and programs receive public recognition for exemplary work. Review ICMA's Awards Program details and begin work on your nomination/submission today. Nominations are accepted from US and international jurisdictions. Nomination submissions are due by March 6.