I am a member of the inaugural class of the Leadership Southwest County. Organized by CSU San Marcos in partnership with Southwest County stakeholders, the group brings together individuals from education, business, government, non-profits, etc to form a leadership network in the Southwest Riverside county region. We meet monthly to learn about the Southwest County and to explore leadership as a concept and in action.
Yesterday was our second meeting that focused on government. I learned a lot. I developed a new respect for individuals involved in government across the county. I began to see how leadership skills across multiple organizations and settings, begin and end with the ability to communicate, develop relationships, work collaboratively and to always work for a greater purpose than an individual identity or ego. We met and listened to leaders of school districts, water districts, city managers, county officials. We learned from appointed and elected officials. We explored unique resources of the region such as the large and diverse, sovereign nations, California Indian community.
It was a long day. I appreciate the time everyone invested and gave to the group. I would have liked to discuss what I was hearing and learning about with my colleagues a little more - I'm sure that will happen in the future.
The Chief of Staff for Assemblymember Kevin Jeffries said something that really stuck. He noted that in his experience, government classes or civics classes usually focus on the federal and state government. Very little time is devoted to local government. He believes that local government has the greatest and most immediate impact on our daily lives. I think he has a valid point. Living in a growing city like Murrieta, I've experienced elements of good and poor local government decisions and actions. We know who to call when the street light goes out in front of our house at least three times a year - perhaps there's a wiring problem somewhere folks...... And yet, I've paid little attention to local elections. Not anymore. I'm going to make sure I'm better informed and talking with people. Should be interesting.....
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