2025 Winter Conference Recap
Thanks to the many who braved the snow to gather at the Omni in Charlottesville for a stellar Winter Conference! Roughly 140 members, sponsors, students, and others enjoyed impactful sessions and meaningful networking against the backdrop of timely conference topics. Primary areas of focus in the conference included leadership and well-being, effective community planning, and the continually evolving field of artificial intelligence in local governments. Winter Conference Co-Chairs Michelle Bixler and Ashley Reynolds Marshall did an amazing job planning a great event that featured expert-led sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities.
Images by Gary Mester
On Wednesday, Doug Stanley shared unique and powerful insights on managing crisis and fraud through the lens of his deeply personal experience, followed by a well-timed session on the importance of mental health and actionable strategies for its enhancement. A full day Thursday began with Mitchel Silver’s powerful and thought-provoking Planning and Designing Spaces for All presentation, which covered equity, growth, and the community value of public places. His experience leading the “Department of Fun” through caring was inspiring and his remarks cured many of acronym overuse! In Innovative Zoning for Thriving Communities, panelists effectively addressed the critical issue of housing shortages and equitable development. A meaningful panel on economic mobility and strategies to expand affordable housing was next, and Ashley Reyolds Marshall had the honor of introducing her father (Earl Reynolds) as the moderator!
On Thursday afternoon, we shifted gears for a session on artificial intelligence (AI), and a capable panel tackled the digital divide across intergenerational workforces grappling with AI innovations and impacts. Friday morning, Anne Balduzzi delved into the transformative impact of AI – her introductory statement that due to AI’s exponential growth, parts of her presentation could be out of date before the end of the day got everyone’s attention. Experts from local governments and ICMA then discussed practical AI applications for automating government efforts while addressing ethical concerns. As always, committee meetings and networking opportunities throughout the conference were great opportunities to exchange ideas and strengthen partnerships.
By the way, the first draft of this conference summary was written using AI and reviewed by Grammarly!
We can’t wait to see you in Virginia Beach for the Summer Conference in June – hope you can join us!
Christian Goodwin
VLGMA PDC Chair