{"id":559,"date":"2026-09-17T16:58:05","date_gmt":"2026-09-17T21:58:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/phonelive.io\/blog\/?p=559"},"modified":"2026-09-17T16:58:08","modified_gmt":"2026-09-17T21:58:08","slug":"gfg_ep117","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/phonelive.io\/blog\/gfg_ep117\/","title":{"rendered":"The Hidden Work of a City Clerk (with Evelyn Lees) | Ground Floor Government Ep. 117"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Summary<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Evelyn Lees, the city clerk of Noblesville, Indiana. They discuss Evelyn’s journey into local government, the responsibilities of a clerk, and the impact of budgeting and digital record-keeping on her work. Evelyn shares her experiences with community projects, particularly the restoration of a historic cemetery, and emphasizes the importance of communication and respect in public service. She also offers advice for those considering a career in local government, highlighting the need for a genuine desire to serve the community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ready to explore your own local government career options?<\/strong> Download this free guide on how to transition into a successful career in local government: https:\/\/icma.org\/documents\/breaking-local-government-guidebook-career-transitions<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Takeaways<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  1. Evelyn transitioned from state work to local government after a decade.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. The role of a clerk involves managing non-financial records and council documentation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Community projects can have a significant positive impact, like cemetery restoration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Budgeting is crucial, and stewardship of taxpayer money is a priority.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  5. Digital records are important, but hard copies remain essential for permanence.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  6. Communication skills are vital in public service to effectively assist the community.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  7. Internships or volunteer positions can provide valuable insights into local government.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  8. Public service is about helping people, not making profits.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  9. Understanding the difference between city and county government is important for public interactions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  10. Respect and listening are key components of effective public service.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Sponsored by Switchboard.Live<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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