If you have questions about registration please contact Alysse Dowdy at alysse@virginia.edu.

Full Steam Ahead

Dear Conference Participants,  

We are Full Steam Ahead for the 2025 VLGMA Winter Conference! We are thrilled to have you join us for what promises to be an inspiring and dynamic event. Over the next few days, we will explore critical themes that are shaping the future of local government management—ranging from mental wellbeing and innovative zoning to the role of artificial intelligence in both internal operations and community engagement. 

As local leaders and public servants, we find ourselves navigating a rapidly changing landscape. From the complexities of intergenerational workforces to the challenges of conflict resolution in times of crisis, the need for innovation, resilience, and collaboration has never been more urgent. This conference is designed to equip you with actionable insights, best practices, and fresh ideas to tackle the issues that matter most in your work and communities.  

Our exploration of innovative zoning will challenge us to think creatively about how we shape our cities and regions for the future. Through our discussions on the affordable housing conundrum, we will delve into how creating access, opportunity, and structures that foster self-sufficiency can move the needle. We'll examine how AI is transforming both internal operations and the way we interact with our communities, offering new tools for efficiency, engagement, and problem-solving. 

One of the greatest strengths of local government lies in its people—whether working across generations or managing diverse teams through periods of crisis. Our sessions will highlight the importance of fostering inclusive, adaptable workplaces that value every voice and perspective. 

 Most importantly, this conference is a chance to connect with colleagues, share experiences, and build relationships that will continue long after we leave here. The challenges we face are complex, but through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to learning, we are confident that we can move full steam ahead into a brighter future for our communities. 

Thank you for being part of this important conversation. We look forward to the insights, ideas, and solutions we will discover together. 

Again, we’re thrilled to host you and hope you’ll join us for these three days!   

Winter Conference Co-Chairs: 

Michelle Bixler, Deputy Town Manager, Town of Woodstock

Ashley Reynolds Marshall, Deputy City Manager for Social Equity, City of Charlottesville

VLGMA 3rd Vice-President & Professional Development Chair: 

Christian Goodwin, County Administrator, Louisa County