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There’s a lot to learn as you’re getting started in local government — and we’re here to help!
The League offers a variety of resources to help you lead your community and accomplish your goals as a newly elected city official. The following list will help get you started, and we’re available to talk through any questions you may have — see “Your LMC Resource” for contact details.
Core competencies for elected city officials
Learn about the 11 competencies that represent the core knowledge, skills, and abilities or other characteristics that help elected officials succeed.
Explore the core competencies for elected city officials.
Essential learning for newly elected city officials
These learning opportunities give you the tools you need for your first years in office.
View our upcoming events webpage for a full list of events with registration currently open.
- Elected Leaders Institute: Newly Elected Leaders — Learn the essential skills and get the core knowledge you need to succeed. Offered in multiple locations in February or early March.
- League of Minnesota Cities Annual Conference — Build on the concepts and basic information you learned from the Elected Leaders Institute at the LMC Annual Conference in June.
- MemberLearn online learning platform — Take courses designed specifically for elected city officials and learn about your roles and responsibilities, foundational skills, public finance essentials, personnel management, and more. Access the list of MemberLearn courses for elected city officials.
Essential reading for newly elected city officials
Check out these key resources to get essential city government know-how:
- Good Start to Good Governance will quickly orient you on council structure, its powers, council meeting basics, and how to avoid common problem areas.
- Handbook for Minnesota Cities is your comprehensive resource for laws affecting Minnesota city governments.
- Minnesota Mayors Handbook is a starting point for all you need to learn to be a successful mayor.
Stay connected
- Sign up for a free subscription to the League’s Cities Bulletin e-newsletter, your source for legislative updates and important city news, information, and resources.
- Follow us on social media to stay in the loop on local government hot topics:
