Events

June 23, 2023

From the Executive Director: Splash into Summer! 

Here in Western Pennsylvania, we have a huge variety of municipalities with staff dedicated to enhancing quality of life for residents and making summer as fun as possible. Look no further than Dormont, which maintains “the largest outdoor pool in Pennsylvania,” a historic landmark that plays a central role in […]
May 16, 2023

From the Executive Director: Who Doesn’t Like a Good Mystery? 

As summer approaches, I begin to think about relaxing on a hot summer day with a good book to read. I enjoy reading all types of books from biographies to historical fiction, but I can never say no to a good mystery. The intrigue, the secrets, and the elusive nature […]
April 12, 2023

From the Executive Director: Leading in Local Government

Looking at Pennsylvania and the country over the past several years, it is important to take time to recognize the efforts of our local government officials, especially considering the uncertainties that occurred with the Covid-19 pandemic and larger regional changes impacting our communities. Many of these individuals are dedicated public […]
March 20, 2023

From the Executive Director: Excited for Spring? So are we!

Spring is here and this year that means municipal elections! If you know that, then you should know this: Local Government Academy is busy planning for the 2023-2024 Newly Elected Officials Course! But in the meantime, the best part of year is happening now! Spring means Spring Break for some, […]
March 13, 2023

Local Government 101

The Local Government 101 webinar series not only covers the functions and obligations of government officials but also best practices for thriving communities and good governance. From the basics such as the differences between boroughs, cities, and townships to key strategies for addressing complex municipal issues, such as responding to […]
February 14, 2023

Community Partnerships and Collaboration Announcement

We are thrilled to announce the commencement of new grant programs and training opportunities focused on real-world challenges facing our communities. This new Community Partnerships and Collaboration programing prioritizes the delivery of vital technical assistance to local municipalities, enabling communities to tackle longstanding problems such as blight and financial insecurity. […]
February 6, 2023

From the Executive Director: Local Governments & Non-Profits

Throughout 2023, Local Government Academy will celebrate our 40 years of providing fact-based, non-partisan information to municipal officials and employees. During this time, we have become a recognized and trusted provider of education that puts communities on the path to good governance, but we couldn’t do that without the involvement […]
January 16, 2023

Announcing the Budget and Finance Management Virtual Training Series

  The Budget and Finance Management Virtual Training Series is designed specifically for Public Sector employees and those interested in Public Administration. The 2023 schedule features municipal finance experts and local government peers who will explain the basics of municipal budgeting while sharing best practices in good governance. To join […]
January 9, 2023

From the Executive Director: Future is Bright

As we say goodbye to 2022, I am filled with gratitude for the support I have received over the last four years during my tenure as Executive Director of Local Government Academy. With that said, nothing compares to how excited I am to begin 2023. Why? Local Government Academy celebrates […]
November 18, 2022

From the Executive Director — Local Government and Your Health

In Pennsylvania, our elected officials have the power to make decisions every day that affect our health. Local governments wield immense control over our lives via the authority to regulate land use even as they are obligated to protect our health under the state constitution. With land use decisions ceded […]