The 351

This spring, 54 Massachusetts communities put Proposition 2 1⁄2 override questions before voters, making FY27 one of the most active years in history. But what do the numbers actually tell us? In this episode, the MMA’s...

Local journalism has long been one of the pillars of healthy communities — informing residents, holding public officials accountable, and helping people understand the decisions that shape their daily lives. But as...

Across Massachusetts, cities and towns are facing one of their biggest workforce challenges in decades. Recruiting qualified employees is harder than ever, experienced staff are retiring, and employees' expectations...

Municipal leaders are expected to solve problems, navigate public scrutiny, lead through uncertainty, and somehow avoid burning out along the way. But what if the key to becoming a better leader isn't working harder —...

<p>Municipal finance, which touches nearly every service residents rely on, is a specialized field. In this episode, Sean Cronin, Senior Deputy Commissioner of the Massachusetts Division of Local Services, discusses how...

<p>As misinformation spreads online, and residents expect instant updates, municipalities are under growing pressure to communicate clearly, effectively, and in a way that bolsters public trust. Some cities and towns...

<p>Leadership is tough at any level, but working in local government presents a unique set of challenges – and requires specific skills. Executive coaches and leadership consultants Betsy and Anthony Neptune of Neptune...

<p>MMA Membership Director Jackie Lavender Bird has been a city councillor, mayoral chief of staff, and a former MMA legislative leader, which means she can share a 360-degree view of local government. In this episode...

<p>Massachusetts is home to some of the best health care in the world, but it’s also one of the most expensive places to get it. Sarah Iselin, President and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, unpacks what’s...

<p>While safeguarding the public trust and preventing fraud, waste, and abuse is an essential role in the Commonwealth, Inspector General Jeff Shapiro is also on a mission to build relationships across the state and...

<p>Each year, the MMA recognizes cities and towns that have developed unique and creative projects and programs to increase the effectiveness of local government. In this episode, we hear from this year’s winners...

<p>Jill Harvey is on a mission to help local leaders move beyond buzzwords and translate diversity, equity, and inclusion into real policies and actions. As the MMA’s first Chief Equity Officer, she shares the work...

<p>The majority of Massachusetts cities and towns have fewer than 12,000 residents — but they’re still responsible for delivering the same services as larger communities. Ryan McLane of Carlisle and Denise Dembkoski of...

<p>As Massachusetts heads into the final stretch of its two-year legislative session, the stakes for cities and towns across the Commonwealth couldn’t be higher.</p> <p>MMA Legislative Director Dave Koffman helps unpack...

<p>From 1,400 attendees and 377 first-time participants to viral videos, fiery “Burning Questions,” and remarks from state and national leaders, this year’s Connect 351 event showcased both the scale and the spirit of...