The MSU Extension Local Government Center (the LGC) celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Founded in 1985 at Montana State University, the LGC empowers local governments and communities through its mission to strengthen local government capacities with training, technical assistance, and research.

Originally created to support Montana’s unique local government review process, the LGC was formally authorized by the Montana Board of Regents in 1989, and its mission was codified by the state legislature in 1993. To fulfill their mission, the LGC offers:

  • Professional development and leadership training for county and municipal elected officials and local government administrative professionals.
  • Specialized support for local governments and organizations to implement effective programs and improve community outcomes.
  • Data-driven publications and resources to inform decision-making, assess community needs, and evaluate the effectiveness of development strategies.

The LGC’s offerings are varied and tailored to meet the statewide demand for training and technical assistance. Foundational programs include annual training for elected officials, professional development certification and training for municipal administrative professionals, regional local government review workshops for the citizen-led review, and online courses. Most recently, the LGC’s Montana Grown Leadership Academy inaugurated the new Foundation Series and Deep Dive trainings, offering leadership development to local government officials and administrators.

people smiling after recieving an award

Photo: Schuyler Germann, MSU Extension

There are a variety of opportunities to engage with the Local Government Center, apply the trainings and resources, and become an active participant in the civic life of local communities:

  • Utilize LGC publications, courses, and resources to learn about the history of local governance in Montana and to better understand the relationship between local governance and civic responsibility.
  • Attend public workshops and webinars and apply leadership and communication skills to enhance relationships and organizational functioning in community and workplace settings.
  • Explore the Local Government Profiles (link below) for insights into city and county governance and leverage these data tools to advocate for informed policy decisions in your area.
  • Subscribe to LGC newsletters (link below) for updates on training, events, and public information about local government data, research, and involvement.

Want to get involved in your local government as an active citizen? Attend a county or municipal council meeting, or volunteer to serve on one of the many of local government boards that contribute to the health and functioning of your community.

Whatever level of engagement you choose, join the Local Government Center in celebrating its 40-year legacy of supporting and strengthening local governments, and their ongoing contributions and future impacts.

a group of LGC members smiling by a river   a man teaching a workshop to a group of people

Photos (Left): Jennifer Anderson, MSU Extension; (Right): Schuyler Germann, MSU Extension

RESOURCES AND MORE INFORMATION

Local Government Center montana.edu/extension/localgov 

Local Government Profiles montana.edu/extension/localgov/resourcesandhandouts/referencedocuments/localgovernmentprofiles/index.html

Local Government Center 40th Anniversary Galamontana.edu/extension/localgov/40yearanniversarygala.html

Subscribe to LGC event and information updates  forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=eqlKMqYD_ESR5DhG-87RE3b-Ozgx-JtItZZ14mAASCJUNFU0R0FFVUxDTjMzQllCTU9MRkozWU43SC4u

 

Lydia Maunz is the Associate Specialist and Schuyler Germann is the Program Manager at the MSU Extension Local Government Center.