50 Survival Tips for Newly Elected Municipal Officials
Congratulations! The voters have spoken and you’re the candidate they’ve elected to meet the challenges facing the city and its citizens.
Nevada voters have chosen you to face the challenges of public service. While exciting, your role may be different from what you imagined. These 50 tips, specifically for Nevada, will guide you in becoming an effective municipal leader:
01
Understand Nevada's Unique Municipal Structure
Familiarize yourself with Nevada’s distinctive governance models, such as the Dillon’s Rule principle, which affects local government powers.
02
Learn State-Specific Laws
Study Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS), particularly chapters on local government, ethics, and public meetings (NRS 241).
03
Prepare for a ‘Full-Time Part-Time’ Role
Municipal service may officially be part-time, but expect long hours, including city council meetings, reviewing materials, and constituent outreach.
04
Know Your Role
Understand the roles and limits of mayors, council members, city managers, clerks, and other officials within Nevada’s municipal framework.
05
Do Your Homework
Read Nevada’s Open Meeting Law guide and familiarize yourself with city ordinances and budgets.
06
Embrace Public Transparency
Nevada has strong transparency laws. Always act with openness and integrity, as constituents will scrutinize your decisions and actions.
07
Engage with Constituents Effectively
Nevada’s diverse communities have unique concerns. Be an accessible, active listener, whether you’re addressing urban, suburban, or rural populations.
08
Don’t Overpromise
Avoid campaign promises that may conflict with Nevada’s municipal governance processes, which require council consensus.
09
Understand Nevada’s Growth Challenges
Nevada is one of the fastest-growing states. Be prepared to address urbanization, housing, and water scarcity issues.
10
Learn to Navigate Zoning and Land Use Conflicts
Expect public hearings filled with NIMBYs, CAVEs, and BANANAs, especially in fast-growing cities like Las Vegas, Reno, or Henderson.
11
Build Relationships with State Legislators
Nevada’s legislature has a significant influence on municipal issues. Develop strong connections with your Assembly and Senate representatives
12
Attend State and Regional Training
Utilize resources like the Nevada League of Cities and Municipalities for training and networking opportunities.
13
Master Nevada’s Budgeting Requirements
Understand state-mandated municipal budgeting practices, particularly those relating to property tax caps and funding allocations.
14
Focus on Water Management
In Nevada, water is a critical issue. Be informed about your municipality’s water rights and conservation efforts.
15
Recognize the Impact of Tourism
In cities like Las Vegas, the economy relies on tourism. Understand how local decisions can impact this vital sector.
16
Utilize Resources like NACO
The Nevada Association of Counties (NACO) is a valuable resource for municipal officials seeking guidance and support.
17
Avoid Conflicts of Interest
Abide by NRS 281A, which outlines ethical standards for public officers, and disclose any conflicts of interest.
18
Learn About Tribal Relations
If your municipality interacts with tribal governments, prioritize respectful collaboration on shared issues.
19
Understand Open Meeting Law
Adhere strictly to Nevada’s Open Meeting Law (NRS 241) to avoid legal challenges and maintain public trust.
20
Be Consistent in Decision-Making
Consistency builds trust. Make policy-based decisions that align with your city’s goals.
21
Be a Team Player
Municipal governance in Nevada requires teamwork. Respect differing opinions and work toward consensus.
22
Avoid Political Vendettas
Leave personal grievances behind and focus on serving your constituents.
23
Pace Yourself
Mastering municipal governance takes time. Be patient as you learn and adapt
24
Work with Nevada's Regional Planning Commissions
Collaborate with regional planning organizations to address cross-municipality challenges like transportation and housing.
25
Plan for Emergency Management
Understand your role in Nevada’s emergency response systems, especially for wildfires and droughts.
26
Engage with Nevada's Gaming Industry
Recognize the importance of gaming regulations and their impact on municipal revenue and community dynamics.
27
Utilize Federal and State Grants
Tap into grant opportunities for municipal projects, particularly those addressing infrastructure and sustainability.
28
Stay Ethical
Take advantage of training on Nevada’s ethics laws to handle dilemmas effectively.
29
Leverage Technology
Nevada cities are embracing smart city initiatives. Explore how technology can improve municipal operations.
30
Be Accessible
Nevada residents value open communication. Provide multiple channels for constituents to contact you.
31
Develop Sustainable Growth Policies
Promote policies that balance economic development with environmental conservation.
32
Advocate for Affordable Housing
Work on solutions to Nevada’s housing challenges, particularly for low- and middle-income residents.
33
Foster Strong Media Relations
Collaborate with local media outlets to ensure transparency and public awareness of municipal initiatives.
34
Celebrate Nevada’s Diversity
Support inclusive policies that reflect Nevada’s multicultural communities.
35
Learn from Experienced Officials
Seek mentorship from long-serving officials, especially those familiar with Nevada-specific challenges.
36
Stay Focused on Your Mission
Avoid distractions and keep your attention on your constituents’ needs.
37
Prioritize Public Safety
Ensure adequate funding and support for police, fire, and emergency medical services in your community.
38
Take Pride in Public Service
Remember the importance of your role in shaping Nevada’s future.
39
Be Adaptable
Prepare for the unexpected, whether it’s economic fluctuations, population growth, or natural disasters.
40
Embrace Collaboration
Partner with neighboring municipalities to tackle shared challenges.
41
Be Humble and Approachable
Stay connected to your community and resist the allure of political ego.
42
Stay Informed on Transportation Issues
Understand how state transportation policies affect local infrastructure and planning.
43
Take Training Seriously
Attend workshops and conferences to enhance your skills and knowledge.
44
Think Long-Term
Focus on policies that will benefit Nevada’s future generations.
45
Recognize Controversy as Inevitable
Handle disputes professionally and focus on resolving real issues.
46
Be Transparent About Funding
Ensure clarity about how taxpayer dollars are spent to build public trust.
47
Build Community Engagement
Encourage public participation in municipal planning and decision-making.
48
Respect Nevada’s History
Incorporate historical preservation into your city’s growth plans.
49
Celebrate Your Wins
Acknowledge achievements and recognize the contributions of your team.
50
Enjoy the Journey
Public service can be challenging, but it’s also deeply rewarding. Make the most of your term by embracing the experience.
Nevada League of Cities & Municipalities
Nevada League of Cities & Municipalities
P.O. Box 423
Reno, NV 89501
Reno, NV 89501
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM