Jim Witt Interview

I had the privilege and opportunity to sit and talk with Jim Witt. Jim retired from the city management profession recently. In the interview Jim announces what he will be doing in the future. Listen to find out and learn a nugget or two.

To listen to the audio player mouse over the player and the audio files will pop up. Select which file you would like and click that file to listen.

Joe in Audio

I have decided to discuss my thoughts through podcasting. By clicking the title "Joe in Audio" you can now listen to me online. With each podcast I will give a brief summary of what it will contain in writing.

Today's podcast is about the City of Coppell and Mike Land. Coppell is going through a transition in City Managers while I give a quick update on Mike Land, City Manager of Prosper.

Leadership and Compassion

I was recently informed of a single mother living in a tent in Dickinson, Texas because of the destruction of Hurricane Ike. This was also broadcasted in the Houston news channel. You can view the story here. The most amazing feature of the story was how Julie Johnston, City Manager of Dickinson, got involved to make a difference in this single mother’s life. I have had the privilege of knowing Julie for many years and this demonstration of leadership does not surprise me. What I find inspiring is the fact that she took time to care for someone else knowing that the role of city manager brings great challenges. I also had the opportunity to see the story and hear the strength of this single mother and the sense of urgency to provide shelter for her family. We all know what Texas weather can do.

We salute Julie Johnston, City Manager of Dickinson, Texas for her reaching out and doing something that made a difference in someone else’s life. May we all be inspired by acts of leadership that make a difference because I know of the many intensive challenges City Managers have in their communities.