Check out all upcoming events- Webinars, sessions, symposiums, and more.
Lowering Records Request Costs: Practical Tactics for Local Governments
This NACo webinar will identify key cost drivers in public records request management and provides strategies to minimize manual processing, control costs, and mitigate legal risks.
Five Trends that will Define the Workplace in 2026 and Beyond
In this webinar, speakers from MissionSquare Research Institute will discuss their annual “Trends to Watch” report, highlighting predictions for developments that will help shape workforce strategies in the year ahead. From the rising importance of financial wellness and guaranteed income to the human impact of artificial intelligence (AI), the Institute’s findings underscore a common theme: organizations that pair innovation with intentional investment in their people will lead the way.
DATE: April 30, 2026
TIME: 2:00 - 3:00 PM EST
COST: Free!
Presenters:
Zhikun "Dennis" Liu, PhD, Head of MissionSquare Research Institute
Zhikun Liu, PhD., CFP®, Vice President, Head of MissionSquare Research Institute
Dr. Zhikun "Dennis" Liu is the Head of MissionSquare Research Institute, bringing a rich blend of industry expertise, academic excellence, and research acumen. His career spans significant positions at the Employee Benefit Research Institute and Empower Retirement, where he notably contributed to financial wellness and retirement readiness through innovative financial planning models and engines, including the acclaimed Ballpark E$timate®, My Total Wealth®, and the Financial Wellness Scoring System.
Dr. Liu's extensive academic background is marked by his experience teaching at Texas Tech University, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Texas. He has taught a wide array of subjects, ranging from economics to personal finance and mathematics. In addition to his teaching credentials, Dr. Liu is a distinguished CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional.
A prolific contributor to academic and industry literature, Dr. Liu's research papers are frequently cited in the news media, and he is a sought-after speaker at conferences. His leadership and contributions in the field underscore his commitment to enhancing financial literacy and retirement planning strategies.
Gerald Young, Senior Researcher
Gerald Young, Senior Researcher, MissionSquare Research Institute
Mr. Young serves as Senior Researcher at MissionSquare Research Institute. In this role, he conducts quantitative and case study research on workforce issues, public retirement plans, shared staffing, DEI, financial wellness, and other related topics.
Prior to joining the Research Institute in 2017, he worked with the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) for over two decades on performance management, police recruitment, organizing best practices symposia, and researching smart communities and local government innovation. He has also served local government directly for eight years with the cities of Chula Vista and Loma Linda, California, with a focus on budgeting and program evaluation.
His research has been covered by a variety of publications including The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, Federal News Network, Pensions & Investments, PlanSponsor, Politico, Axios, Route Fifty, and American City and County, among others, as well as the IBM Center for the Business of Government. He has presented at various state, national, and international conferences.
Mr. Young earned a master's in public administration from the University of Kansas and bachelor's degrees in mathematics / computer science and political science from Loyola University Chicago.
You can email Gerald at GYoung@missionsquare.com.
Thank you to 2026 Corporate Partner, MissionSquare, for being a 2026 Friend of NACA and supporting county administrators across the U.S.!
NACA Virtual Idea Exchange
Current NACA Members and 2026 Friends of NACA are invited to join the May 7 virtual NACA Idea Exchange. Attendees will learn from their peers via facilitated discussions in breakout rooms. Come to connect with your county peers from across the nation!
TOPIC: How communities are supporting/funding Human Services Systems (Developmental Disabilities, Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services, Children Services, Public Health).
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. EST
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. CST
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. MST
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. PST
Location: Virtual/online via Zoom
Cost: Free (This is a members-only event. This virtual Idea Exchange is for NACA members AND 2026 Friends of NACA sponsors.
This event is brought to you in partnership with Mission Square Retirement and NACo EDGE.
After registering, your membership and sponsorship status will be verified. If verified, you will receive a confirmation email which will include Zoom credentials. Questions? Email NIU Secretariat, Paula Freeze.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
I-NAPA Boba Break - May 2026
I-NAPA Boba Breaks are monthly informal virtual meetings held on every second Friday of the month at 9:00 a.m. PST | 11:00 a.m. CST | 12:00 p.m. EST to provide a professional networking opportunity for Asian and Pacific Islander public administrators, students, and vendors serving the public sector to connect and network. Join I-NAPA for this unique opportunity to connect!
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
2026 NACo Annual Conference & Exposition
Save the date!
NACA will be holding 1-2 Idea Exchanges during the conference as well as a NACA Reception.
We look forward to seeing you in Orleans Parish/New Orleans, La.
LGSI at Stanford (Local Government Summer Institute)
Local Governance Summer Institute
Local Governments are the new hotbeds of policy innovation and governance most affecting people's day-to-day lives in the United States. They are the epicenters of societal transformation occurring in the global rush towards smart, zero emissions and carbon neutral futures. Local governments are providing policy leadership on issues of national and global significance to improve the quality of life for their communities. These new roles require strong, innovative, and inclusive leadership from local government executives.
LGSI@Stanford offers city managers, county executives, regional directors, and other senior local government officials the opportunity to exchange and acquire tools for improving local government performance and enhancing prospective analytical capacity to innovate and anticipate societal change. This program will strengthen individual capacities in public finance, negotiating and strategic planning skills, while exposing participants to innovative solutions and technological advance supporting the emergence of smarter, more resilient, sustainable, and equitable communities in California and around the world.
Stanford University faculty, Silicon Valley visionaries, and highly experienced leaders in the local government management profession challenge participants to consider long-view policy considerations and issues, such as technological advances and the transition to a low carbon economy in local government decision-making, while at the same time addressing current challenges facing our communities. Themes covered have included strategic thinking in problem solving, smart financial management practices, community engagement, ethical practice and negotiations skills, regional energy transition and water management policy challenges, smart transport and urban infrastructure upgrading to enhance economic competitiveness at the local and regional level, and many others.
Each year the program selects a set of salient and pressing challenges for local government and brings together Stanford, industry, and local governance experts to help participants innovate appropriate solutions for their communities.
LGSI@Stanford fosters active participation and provokes insightful discussion and debate on public management issues. The program encourages networking and collaborative exchange of participants among each other, with instructors, and with dedicated coaches. Participants work through salient group projects which allow them to merge their own professional experience with the training and guidance being provided through the program. At the onset of the program, participants are paired with a senior executive coach with whom they meet at select intervals throughout the seminar, focusing on goals, professional development, and the application of lessons learned in the program to the specific context of the participants’ careers. The program is held in the stimulating environment of Stanford University, Silicon Valley, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Applications for the 2026 institute are now open and will be reviewed monthly on a rolling basis until the program reaches capacity. Click on the image below to view the brochure.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
ICMA 2026 Annual Conference
ICMA’s premier event covers a wide range of topics, including leadership development, community engagement, ethics, fiscal innovation, the future of work, and technology.
Proposals for all ICMA 2026 conferences are due Nov 7, 2025. Click the link below for more information: https://conference.icma.org/call-for-presentations/
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
2027 NACo Legislative Conference
Save the date! The conference will be held in Washington, D.C.
Check the link below for updates:
2027 NACo Annual Conference & Exposition
Save the date!
We look forward to seeing you in Chatham County, Ga.
2028 NACo Legislative Conference
Save the Date!
For more NACo Event information, please visit https://www.naco.org/page/naco-events
2028 NACo Annual Conference & Expo
Save the Date!
For NACo Event information, please visit https://www.naco.org/page/naco-events
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
County Leaders Navigating FEMA Changes: A Fireside Chat with Former FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell on Preparedness, Leadership, and Practical Action
This NACo webinar will explore what counties can control — from pre-disaster planning and cross-department coordination to post-disaster recovery positioning — even as broader policy conditions shift.
County Data Governance Decoded: Aligning Strategy with Government Needs
This NACo webinar will feature lessons learned from a panel of county leaders who participated in a data governance workgroup, attendees will gain insights into what works, what doesn’t, and how to align strategy for resilience and compliance.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
It’s Complicated: Learn the Truth of ADA Website Compliance and How To Do It Right
Free webinar for ICMA members to learn how to bring your jurisdiction into compliance with the new federal accessibility guidelines on the horizon.
How Do We Remain Politically Non-Partisan and Ethically Relevant In the Face of Threats to Democracy? (2026 ICMA Coaching Webinar)
The task of maintaining ethical leadership while avoiding partisanship has never been more critical. Local government organizations are challenged to support a balance that inspires trust, fosters transparency, and upholds the principles of democracy while embracing their roles as guardians of integrity and inclusivity.
SPEAKERS:
Pamela Davis, Assistant City Manager, City of Boulder, CO
Michelle L. Ferguson, Executive Vice President, Raftelis Financial Consultants, Inc. and former Assistant City Manager of the County of Arlington, VA
Michael S. Land, City Manager, City of Coppell, TX
DATE: March 18, 2026
COST: Free!
TIME: 10:30 am PT / 11:30 am MT / 12:30 pm CT / 1:30 p.m. ET
ICMA PRACTICE AREAS: [1] Personal and Professional Integrity, [4] Staff Effectiveness, and [6] Strategic Leadership
ICMA TOPICS: Ethics and Leadership
FOR JOB TITLES: Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Assistant Chief Administrative Officer (ACAO), Department Head, Mid-Management and Entry-Level Staff, and Student and Intern
The ICMA Coaching Program offers free one-to-one coaching to ICMA members. If you are an ICMA member, register on CoachConnect to choose a coach, and explore more Coaching Resources.
NACo Policy Insider Webinar Series: Understanding the Federal Landscape for Counties
Last year's Inside Washington series is now NACo Policy Insider, a bi-weekly webinar offering an overview of the full federal policy landscape impacting counties and deeper dives into specific policy areas. This series will take place on Zoom Webinar.
NFBPA Forum 2026
Join NFBPA as they gather in the historic city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from March 7–12, 2026, under the theme “Grounded in Greatness."
Cyber Resilience in County Finance: Protecting What Matters Most
This NACo webinar is brought to you by NACo EDGE, establishing people, purchasing, and performance cost-saving solutions that can be applied to counties nationwide. EDGE is owned by NACo, advised by county leaders and 100% focused on solutions for U.S. Counties.
SheLeadsGov Virtual Summit
The March 5, 2026 2026 SheLeadsGov Virtual Summit tackles those realities head‑on, offering guidance rooted in lived experience and actionable expertise. This event will bring together seasoned practitioners, rising leaders, and strategic thinkers for three powerful panel discussions that address the realities women face in public service.
Register today to join this dynamic, future‑focused webinar. You’ll be equipped with tools, insights, and inspiration to thrive in today’s complex civic landscape.
Click on the source link below for more information and to register today!
County Administrator Idea Exchange
Join NACA for their popular Idea Exchange at the NACo Legislative Conference.
Location: Columbia 7/9/10, Terrace Level (Washington Hilton, 1919 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009)
NACA Reception sponsored by MissionSquare
You’re invited! County administrators are invited to a reception at the NACo Legislative Conference, sponsored MissionSquare Retirement.
Location: Northwest, Lobby Level (Washington Hilton, 1919 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009)
2026 NACo Legislative Conference
We look forward to seeing you in Washington, DC! Please visit the conference program for times and locations for NACA events.
2026 NACo Legislative Pre-Conference: Technology Innovation Forum
Why County Leaders Can't Miss This Event:
🔐 CYBERSECURITY – Opening Keynote
Carlos Kizzee (MS-ISAC) & John Matelski (NACo) on frontline strategies for protecting critical services and building county resilience
🚨 AI IN 911 OPERATIONS – Fairfax County Leadership
County Executive Bryan Hill, Commissioner Ben Ku (Gwinnett County), and the Fairfax 9-1-1 team share how AI is triaging non-emergency calls and transforming emergency response
🗳️ AI IN ELECTIONS – Expert Panel
Commissioner Shinica Thomas (Wake County) and election leaders share practical innovations for voter communication, training, and secure operations
📊 GIS & STORYMAPS – Live Demo with Esri
Bring county data to life with compelling visualizations and transparent storytelling
✅ AI EVALUATION FRAMEWORK – New York State Counties
Proven matrix for assessing AI solutions with confidence and fiscal responsibility
👉 REGISTER NOW: 2026 NACo Legislative Conference | National Association of Counties
Space is limited. Secure your spot today and join fellow county leaders shaping the future of local government technology.
Questions? Contact us at Kimberly Ransom, @kransom@naco.org
NACA Virtual Idea Exchange
NACA Members and 2026 Friends of NACA are invited to join the February 5, 2026 virtual NACA Idea Exchange.
TOPIC: Service Delivery and Operational Efficiency with AI and Beyond
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. EST
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. CST
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. MST
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. PST
NACA selects topics for Idea Exchanges based on member feedback. Here are some highlights of questions and ideas NACA has received on this topic:
We are using AI to analyze our agenda before it is final and it is finding errors, conducting analysis for our consideration, and really having an impact! I wonder who else is using it for analysis and how.
The topic on methods of prioritizing services in times of reduction, budget tightening could be something to hear about.
Check out this article: Integrating Artificial Intelligence into Public Administration: Challenges and Vulnerabilities. “By leveraging AI technologies, governmental institutions can analyze vast amounts of data to inform decision-making actors, streamline processes, and improve citizen engagement.”
The virtual Idea Exchanges are organized so attendees will learn from their peers via breakout rooms through facilitated discussions. Come to connect with your county peers from across the nation!
Please note that this virtual Idea Exchange is for NACA members that are current practitioners in county government AND 2026 Friends of NACA sponsors.
Location: virtual/online via Zoom
This event is brought to you in partnership with Mission Square Retirement.
After registering, your membership and sponsorship status will be verified. If verified, you will receive a confirmation email via Zoom AND a calendar invitation which will include Zoom credentials. Questions? Email NIU Secretariat, Paula Freeze.
What to Know Before You Go to NACo’s Legislative Conference
If this is your first time attending NACo’s Legislative Conference, this webinar is for you!
NACA Virtual Idea Exchange
NACA Members and Friends of NACA are invited to join the 5th and final virtual NACA Idea Exchange of 2025 on December 11th.
TOPIC: Budget Reduction and Personnel Allocation Processes
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. EST
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. CST
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. MST
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. PST
The virtual Idea Exchanges are organized so attendees will learn from their peers via breakout rooms through facilitated discussions. Come to connect with your county peers from across the nation!
Please note that this virtual Idea Exchange is for NACA members that are current practitioners in county government AND current Friends of NACA sponsors.
Location: virtual/online via Zoom
This event is brought to you in partnership with Mission Square Retirement.
After registering, your membership and sponsorship status will be verified. If verified, you will receive a confirmation email via Zoom AND a calendar invitation which will include Zoom credentials. Questions? Email NIU Secretariat, Paula Freeze.
Fiscal Stewardship in Infrastructure Modernization: How Counties Can Thrive Through Uncertainty
County administrators know that modern public facilities and infrastructure are the foundation of their communities’ quality of life. But with funding uncertainties clouding every spending initiative, administrators need evidence that infrastructure modernization is not only essential, but also practical in the current environment.
Join us for an hour with infrastructure experts from Solano County, CA and OPTERRA Energy Services to learn:
Which public systems and facilities are most in need of improvement throughout the United States.
How comprehensive modernization programs create more efficient infrastructure, freeing up money to add or improve public services.
The funding pathways that make ambitious projects pencil out, for both urban and rural counties.
How initiatives can benefit a variety of county departments and accelerate the achievement of countywide objectives.
Be sure to stay for the case study portion! Leaders from Solano County will share how their comprehensive modernization program prevents power outages, reduces carbon emissions, lowers utility expenses, and engages community members.
Details
DATE: Tuesday, December 9, 2025
TIME: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM EDT
VENUE: virtual (Zoom)
COST: free
RSVP through the button below (via Ticket Tailor).
Click here to register if no RSVP button appears above.
Speakers
Kelly Fergusson, Senior Program Development Manager, Public Sector, OPTERRA
At OPTERRA, Kelly is responsible for coordination, supervision, and overall financial management of a wide portfolio of local government projects. Prior to her clean energy work, she spent 15 years as an independent consulting civil engineer specializing in linear utilities capital asset management and mapping. In parallel with her professional career, Kelly served 16 years as a volunteer public servant including 8 years as an elected official of the Menlo Park City Council and one term as Mayor. Kelly holds three degrees from Stanford University, including two Civil Engineering degrees: an MS (Infrastructure Planning and Management) and a PhD (Industrial Facility Quality).
Anthony Tave, Director of General Services, Solano County, California
At Solano County, Anthony oversees the General Services Department providing essential support services to all county departments in the areas of capital projects management, fleet services, facilities operations, purchasing, energy utilities and real estate services. He also serves as an elected member on the City of Pinole City Council as Mayor Pro Tempore. His experience in infrastructure projects runs deep with previous leadership roles at Saint Mary’s College, San Francisco City College, and the City and County of San Francisco. Anthony holds a BS in Civil Engineering from California State Polytechnic University – Pomona.
About OPTERRA
Drawing on over 50 years of experience, OPTERRA designs and builds comprehensive performance-based infrastructure modernization programs for public agencies of all sizes. OPTERRA’s master-planning approach delivers fully funded and operationally efficient infrastructure that aligns with local objectives, promoting safe, sustainable, and resilient communities.
ICMA Webinar: How AI-Powered Budgeting Is Empowering Government
While government organizations want the benefits of priority-based budgeting in the face of deficits and uncertainty, they often lack the resources to undertake the process. We will explore how AI can significantly streamline the implementation of priority-based budgeting and produce recommended, proven, and actionable steps for surfacing revenue opportunities and savings. We will highlight real-world examples of how AI and machine learning unlock patterns and insights previously hidden in the granular details of raw line-item budget data. We will also examine how Al can identify patterns among similarly scored and categorized programs from other governments to suggest program-specific recommendations for resource reallocation and revenue generation. And we will share stories from local governments that are benefiting from priority-based budgeting.
Presenter:
Chris Fabian, Senior Director of Product Strategy, ERP Budgeting, Tyler Technologies
Cost: Free
Click on the link below to register.
ICMA Coaching Webinar: Workforce Revolution: Trends Transforming the Workforce and What You Can't Afford to Overlook
Free ICMA Coaching Webinar for ICMA members and non-members.
Are you prepared to lead through unprecedented transformation?
The workplace is undergoing a seismic shift. Are you prepared to lead through unprecedented transformation, shaped by shifts in technology, demographics, expectations, and values?
Click the link below to register:
Federal Funding & Policy Forecast: What County Leaders Need to Know Now
We invite you to join us for an exclusive webinar featuring Friend of NACA, The Ferguson Group (TFG), a leading federal advocacy firm serving local governments across the country.
This timely session will provide county administrators with strategic insights on:
The current state of federal grants and NOFOs
Transportation reauthorization and its local implications
WRDA 2026: What’s ahead for water infrastructure
A “DC Download” covering the latest from Congress, federal agencies, and the White House
Whether you're planning projects, pursuing funding, or advocating for your community, this webinar will equip you with the latest intelligence and actionable takeaways.
DATE: November 13, 2025
TIME: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM EST
LOCATION: Virtual (Zoom). A recording will be provided. Live attendance is encouraged.
Speakers:
Zach Israel
Kristi More
Jennifer Imo
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Jennifer Imo, joined TFG in 2002 and serves as the Managing Partner of the firm's Advocacy Division. She is recognized for her leadership in representing local governments, with expertise in community and economic development, transportation, public works, criminal justice, and public safety. In addition to her work with individual municipalities, Jennifer serves as Federal Director of NATaT, advocating for over 10,000 towns and townships nationwide.
Jennifer delivers strategic consulting and federal advocacy services, guiding her clients in developing innovative solutions to local challenges and securing funding for priority projects. Through her effective strategies and strong relationships with congressional offices and federal agencies, she has helped clients obtain hundreds of millions of dollars in federal appropriations, authorizations, competitive grants, and cost savings over her nearly 24-year tenure at TFG.
Jennifer has cultivated strong, productive relationships between her clients, federal agencies, and White House staff across multiple administrations. She actively lobbies Congress on a wide range of legislative issues affecting local governments and collaborates closely with national organizations such as NACo, NLC, USCM, ICMA, GFOA, and others to shape impactful legislation. Her work with the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has included drafting and promoting legislation that supports fire departments nationwide. Jennifer is also a frequent speaker at conferences and webinars, where she focuses on helping communities navigate federal resources to advance local priorities and initiatives.
She earned her B.A. in Political Science and Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and her J.D. from Wake Forest University. She joined TFG in 2002 after working as a litigation associate at Moore and Van Allen, PLLC in Charlotte, NC. Jennifer lives in Alexandria, VA, with her husband, Kenneth, three daughters, and two dogs.
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Zach Israel, joined TFG in 2015 and serves as a Principal and Manager of Legislative Affairs. He specializes in helping local governments navigate the federal landscape to secure funding and shape policy outcomes across a wide range of issue areas, including transportation, water infrastructure, agriculture, homeland security, energy and environment, housing, and appropriations.
With over a decade of experience in federal legislative affairs, Zach has built a strong reputation for his strategic advocacy and deep understanding of Congressional processes. He works closely with local government staff and elected officials to ensure their communities benefit from federal programs and legislation that improve quality of life. Zach has successfully delivered funding and policy wins for clients by forging strong relationships with Congressional offices and federal agencies. Since 2021, Zach has helped secure more than $100 million in enacted congressionally directed spending requests for local government projects.
As Manager of Legislative Affairs, Zach leads TFG’s legislative tracking and analysis efforts, monitoring key developments in Congress such as the annual appropriations process, Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), surface transportation reauthorization, and National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) reauthorization, among others. He also edits TFG’s weekly Legislative Update, providing clients with timely insights and analysis on federal legislative activity impacting local governments, and contributes to TFG’s bi-weekly Transportation Notes and Infrastructure Funding Bulletin newsletters.
Before joining TFG, Zach worked in the Government Affairs department at the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), the oldest international organization devoted to investor protection. There, he conducted policy and legal research on federal and state financial regulation and educated Congressional staff on securities issues across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. He also served as Field Director and Policy Research Associate on a Congressional campaign in his home state of New Jersey, and interned during college for several Members of Congress.
Zach received his B.A. in Political Studies from Bard College. He lives in Washington, D.C. with his wife, Juliana, and their two sons.
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Kristi More, joined TFG in 2000 and serves as the Managing Partner of the firm's Grants Division. She specializes in helping local governments, special districts, and public agencies nationwide secure federal funding for critical infrastructure, public safety, water, transportation, economic development, and rural community projects.
With more than twenty-five years of experience, Kristi has built a national reputation for her expertise in the federal grants process—from early project positioning and strategic grant seeking to successful application development and post-award support. Under her leadership, TFG’s Grants Division has grown into one of the premier resources for communities pursuing federal, state, and foundation funding opportunities. Kristi and her team guide clients through every stage of the funding process, helping them secure hundreds of millions of dollars to advance local priorities.
Born and raised in a small, rural county in California rich in natural resources and federal lands, Kristi has a deep personal understanding of the challenges smaller communities face when addressing critical needs with limited resources. She has worked tirelessly to expand TFG’s grants services to rural and underserved areas, ensuring they are positioned for success in an increasingly competitive funding environment.
Kristi’s expertise spans a broad range of federal funding programs, including projects for 911 dispatch centers, library modernization, sewer and stormwater infrastructure, economic development initiatives, public safety and emergency response, regional transportation systems, water conservation, and drinking and wastewater treatment.
In addition to her work with local governments, Kristi leads TFG’s partnerships with the National Special Districts Association – the only national organization advocating for special districts across the United States – and the California Association of Counties – the voice of California counties at the state and federal levels – offering both groups and their members access to specialized grant consulting services.
Kristi received her B.A. in Political Science from the University of California at Davis. She is a frequent speaker on the federal grants process, funding strategies for infrastructure projects, and opportunities for rural and special district communities. Kristi also serves on TFG’s Management Committee.
The County Administrators’ Idea Exchange #2
Join us at the 2025 ICMA Annual Conference for an exclusive county focused session designed specifically for County Administrators/Managers, Assistants, and their Staff. NACA’s Idea Exchange provides an opportunity for county administrators from across the country to discuss issues specifically relevant to counties in an informal setting.
Join the conversation to discuss innovative efforts on recruiting and retaining the workforce, best practices in implementing behavioral health programs, navigating the latest executive orders, and more!
Audience: County Administrators/Managers, Assistants, and their Staff. Friends of NACA are welcome.
Date: Tuesday, October 28
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM EST
Location: 2025 ICMA Annual Conference, Tampa Marriott Water Street
Room: Florida Ballroom Salon VI
The County Administrators’ Idea Exchange
Join us at the 2025 ICMA Annual Conference for an exclusive county focused session designed specifically for County Administrators/Managers, Assistants, and their Staff. NACA’s Idea Exchange provides an opportunity for county administrators from across the country to discuss issues specifically relevant to counties in an informal setting.
Join the conversation to discuss innovative efforts on recruiting and retaining the workforce, best practices in implementing behavioral health programs, navigating the latest executive orders, and more!
Audience: County Administrators/Managers, Assistants, and their Staff. Friends of NACA are welcome.
Date: Monday, October 27
Time: 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM EST
Location: 2025 ICMA Annual Conference, Tampa Marriott Water Street
Room: Florida Ballroom Salon VI
NACA Reception @ ICMA25
Yeoman's Cask & Lion
202 N. Morgan Street
The National Association of County Administrators (NACA) invites you to join county professionals for an evening of networking in an engaging atmosphere. Enjoy food and drinks while mingling, sharing insights, and building valuable relationships. Don't miss this chance to connect with peers and strengthen your professional network!
2025 ICMA Annual Conference
Join over 5,000 local government leaders in Tampa for ICMA’s flagship event of the year.
NACA will offer their Idea Exchange sessions! Stay tuned for details.
Location: Tampa Convention Center, Tampa/Hillsborough County, Florida, USA
Registration opens June 2025.
For more information, please click here to visit ICMA’s website.
Free ICMA Coaching Webinar: New Job Overnight: How to Make the Successful Transition
Free ICMA Coaching Webinar | Master unexpected transitions and curveballs into your greatest professional advantage.
What would you do if you were suddenly thrust into a critical leadership role tomorrow? In the dynamic world of local government, career trajectories can change in an instant—and your ability to adapt quickly can define your entire professional journey.
Cost: Free!
NACA Virtual Idea Exchange
NACA Members and Friends of NACA are invited to join the 4th virtual NACA Idea Exchange on 9/10/25 from
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. EST
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. CST
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. MST
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. PST
TOPIC: Navigating Mandates and Informing Elected Officials
Let’s talk about how counties are navigating state and federal mandates and how county administrators are communicating the information to their elected officials.
The virtual Idea Exchanges are organized so attendees will learn from their peers via breakout rooms through facilitated discussions. Come to connect with your county peers from across the nation!
Please note that this virtual Idea Exchange is for NACA members that are current practitioners in county government AND current Friends of NACA sponsors.
Location: virtual/online via Zoom
This event is brought to you in partnership with Mission Square Retirement.
After registering, your membership and sponsorship status will be verified. If verified, you will receive a confirmation email via Zoom AND a calendar invitation which will include Zoom credentials. Questions? Email NIU Secretariat, Paula Freeze.
Understanding Public Sector Retirement Behavior: Defaults, Decisions, and Security
Join ICMA and MissionSquare Research Institute for a data-driven look at how public sector employees engage with investment options, make financial decisions, and prepare for retirement.
DATE: August 7, 2025
TIME: 12:00 - 1:00 CST
COST: Free
Click here for more information and to register for this free ICMA webinar.
This webinar is complimentary thanks to the sponsorship of ICMA Partner MissionSquare, who will have access to registration information.
NACo Public Promise Insurance Webinar: Legislative Landscape: Prescription Drug Costs & County Impacts
This free NACo webinar will discuss the current federal and state legislative landscape and related trends expected to impact county benefit plans in 2025 and beyond.
Click on the source link below to register!