top of page

THE CHALLENGE

 

Serving in local government isn’t easy.

 

In fall 2024, Majority in the Middle convened several focus groups of current and former local elected officials, and we asked them about the challenges they are facing. We heard about:

 

  • Issues around their own education and getting information.

  • Constituents (and sometimes candidates for local government offices) who didn’t know the difference between jurisdictions and what responsibilities are held by local, state, and federal government.

  • Time management challenges and addressing huge workloads without staff support.

  • Low pay and multiple obligations.

  • Complexities navigating endorsements and campaign finance.

  • Isolation and thought bubbles and effects of groupthink.

  • Trying to serve a nonpartisan office in a nonpartisan way, during a very politically polarized time.

 

From these conversations Majority in the Middle identified needs that we can help resolve.

 

We have a big statewide table, we have the power of convening, and we believe that supporting nonpartisan elected officials who want to keep those offices non-partisan is one way to overcome toxic polarization in our communities.​

Majority in the Middle is dedicated to fostering balanced and effective governance by bridging the gap between different political perspectives. We are excited to launch a new program aimed at supporting elected officials at the nonpartisan local level: county, city, township, school district, etc.

 

This program will provide essential resources, training, and support to help these officials navigate their roles effectively and increase public awareness and understanding of local government.

 

In a country increasingly characterized by political polarization, individuals serving in nonpartisan offices face unique challenges.

 

These officials are often caught in the crossfire of partisan debates, making it difficult to maintain neutrality and focus on community needs. The pressure to align with one side or another can undermine their ability to focus on issues assigned to their particular jurisdiction.

 

Additionally, the lack of resources and support for nonpartisan officials exacerbates these challenges, highlighting the need for targeted programs that provide the guidance and tools necessary to navigate this polarized environment effectively.

PROGRAM COMPONENTS

 

Monthly Online Support Group (happening now - local elected officials can join here) ​

We are hosting monthly online support groups for local elected officials. This platform provides a space for officials to share experiences, seek advice, and build a supportive community. The support group(s) are facilitated by experienced peers and will be an outlet for a range of topics relevant to local governance and serving in public office.

 

Demystification of Local Government (coming soon)

To increase public awareness and understanding of local government by the public, we will launch a "demystification" civic education campaign. This initiative will include educational materials, workshops, and “Silly Question Saturday” public forums designed to explain the functions and importance of local offices. By making local government more accessible and transparent, we hope to foster greater civic engagement and trust in local institutions.

​

Trainings for and by Elected Officials (coming soon)

We will organize quarterly in-person training sessions for local elected officials, led by experienced officials and experts in various fields. These trainings will cover essential skills and knowledge areas, such as effective communication, policy development, and community engagement. By facilitating peer-to-peer learning, we aim to empower current elected officials (and potential future candidates) with the tools they need to succeed in their roles.

​

Research (coming soon)

Our program will include comprehensive research to produce a report on the financial costs associated with running for local office. This report will provide valuable insights into the barriers faced by potential candidates and offer recommendations for reducing these barriers to encourage more diverse and representative participation in local elections.

Local Elected Officials Work 5 pic_edite

HOW THIS IS DIFFERENT

 

Deliberately Avoiding Taxpayer Dollars

Unlike many other programs that are funded with local government dollars and/or impose costs on attendees, our initiative is designed to be offered at no cost to the participants. We want to ensure that participation is not limited to those who can afford it on their own, or who represent units of government with available resources for professional development. To support this commitment (if we can raise the funding) we hope to cover travel expenses and provide stipends for local elected officials’ time. This approach will ensure that all elected officials, regardless of their financial situation, have the opportunity to benefit from the program and contribute to their communities even more effectively.

 

Statewide Participation and Integration Between Units of Local Government

The benefit of statewide connections, especially in bridging the rural-urban divide, cannot be overstated. By fostering relationships and collaboration between elected officials from diverse regions, our program will help address the unique challenges faced by both rural and urban communities.

 

This statewide network will facilitate the sharing of best practices, innovative solutions, and mutual support, ultimately leading to more cohesive and effective governance across Minnesota. Strengthening these connections will also promote a greater understanding and appreciation of the different perspectives and needs within our state, contributing to a more unified and resilient Minnesota, now and into the future.

​

An Impartial Convener

Majority in the Middle does not take positions on issues, and we don’t lobby any unit of government. Our only goal with this program is to improve the experience of people serving in local elected office, create connections between leaders across the rural-urban divide, and provide civic education to increase public awareness of what local government is and does. We hope that this work will create a better political culture for all Minnesotans. â€‹

THE ASK

 

We believe that this program will provide invaluable support to local elected officials, enhance their effectiveness, and increase public understanding and engagement with local government.
 

This program will cost approximately $120,000 and we are actively soliciting support in funding this initiative from individuals, corporations, and philanthropy.

​​

Together, we can make a significant impact on the quality of local governance and strengthen our communities across Minnesota.

​​

Want to help? Individual contributions can be made here. For corporate or philanthropic organizations, please connect with our Executive Director at shannon@majoritymiddle.org or 651-295-8515.

bottom of page