Posted on August 25, 2010 by Dr. John Luthy
Consumer confidence is not the issue. What appears to be happening is an awakening; there is a dawning realization that we have come to expect far too much, desire more than necessary, and, just perhaps, don’t need anything right now. A primary element of this ‘re-centering’ process is facing the reality that perhaps the car is acceptable for another three years, the house will suffice for another ten years, and we just don’t need that four-wheeler or motor home. For America’s vast middle class, the past three decades has been a time of plenty. Most have homes, furnishings, cars, TVs, and all types of assorted toys. It would appear that many folks are achieving a new comfort level with what they have and are delaying any expenditure that is not essential.
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Posted on July 26, 2010 by Dr. John Luthy
I have grave concerns about anyone so blatantly ripping off taxpayers, but I also have concerns about why there was no transparency and oversight. An even greater frustration is that various right-wing conservative groups are extrapolating this situation and making a case that all public salaries are too high. This is worrisome because most public employees do not make big bucks and, while there are some pensions that are totally unfair, most hard-working public employees will not make much in retirement. I know hundreds of city, county, state and federal employees and the vast majority are concerned about their ability to cobble together enough to make it through retirement years.
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Posted on July 16, 2010 by Dr. John Luthy
Be aware of the wealth of information that underpins the rationale and premise for employee motivation. Having this knowledge provides insight and a mirror that reflects not only your style but your inclination to reward. Many senior managers choose to not recognize or reward employees for work they consider part of normal job duties. This is a mistake. Showing appreciation pays huge dividends and creates a culture that cherishes accomplishment.
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Posted on June 12, 2010 by Dr. John Luthy
Of the cities and counties I visit, by far the most successful are those that value training and employee development. There is a commitment to development and in celebrating individual and group contributions. I find it deeply disturbing that so many public agencies choose to eliminate employee development and training programs at a time when productivity, efficiency and quality are critical. Job sharing requires cross training; multitasking to cover new service gaps requires higher knowledge and skill levels. These do not magically appear.
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Posted on April 11, 2010 by Dr. John Luthy
True public leadership requires the will to review the entire range of social contracts involving the public sector as well as others dedicated to the poor, unhealthy and disenfranchised. We are a caring and giving nation…that need not change. But, like so many have said, not addressing Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and various pension funds signals an end to this Nation’s ability to remain an economic force. When will this finally occur?
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Posted on March 11, 2010 by Dr. John Luthy
Public leaders and administrators must be able to predict potential outcomes in order to effectively forecast maintenance, operating budgets, and other unintended events that may or may not occur. With proper training and perspective public employees are perfectly positioned to make fairly accurate predictions and calculate probability without complex formulas and exercises that generally get them no closer to an accurate prediction. Is your agency prepared for the challenges ahead?
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Posted on September 28, 2009 by Dr. John Luthy
Questions for Communities: What is most important for the long-term preservation and continued development of every community? What expenditures produce the greatest long-term benefit for the most people? What are the essential foundational platforms that must be in place to preserve our society and leave a Legacy for those who come after us? And, do we have the fortitude to do what is critical now in order to reap the benefits later?
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Posted on September 17, 2009 by Dr. John Luthy
Everywhere I go I encourage government leaders to ‘Confront Reality!’ The common foe is not change; it is the unwillingness to confront issues and pose tough remedies. Oceans will rise, the planet will continue to warm, the global population will grow, oil and other natural resources will be depleted, and cultures will compete. It is the historic cycle. The most critical questions pertain to our response and willingness to make a commitment to a future legacy.
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Posted on September 8, 2009 by Dr. John Luthy
This is where the rubber truly hits the road and where things must get done. Potholes on Main Street are there for all to see – as are public parks, sports facilities, emergency response by police and fire, snow removal, water, wastewater, public health and zoning issues. Local leadership is magnified and scrutinized; it is challenged with insufficient funds, growing demand, and people in need.
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Posted on August 28, 2009 by Dr. John Luthy
Democrats, Republicans and Independents share a common perspective about Ted Kennedy. While known for his vigorous support of legislation dealing with human and social rights, health care, immigration, and education, he also believed in the legacy of free enterprise. He was far more than a ‘liberal’ who won accolades for championing the rights of the poor and middle class. He collaborated on a great deal of legislation authored by Republican Senate colleagues better known for their support of business. Kennedy rarely shared that spotlight.
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