The Local Government Institute of Wisconsin
Improving Government. Impacting Lives.
The Local Government Institute of Wisconsin, Inc. is a not-for-profit, non-partisan corporation representing all citizens of Wisconsin at the local level. It was created to conduct research, enhance collaboration, and educate the public and policymakers on ways to improve local government’s ability to serve the people.
Latest News
Below find latest news and updates from LGI.
Local Governments Supporting Youth in Crisis
Through the collaborative efforts of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and the Wisconsin Community Services, under the Jefferson County Human Services Department, the brand-new Youth Stabilization Program and revamped Matz Center in Jefferson County provides numerous resources and a supportive environment for youth experiencing mental health crises. Watch a video here from Uniquely Wisconsin.
Local Governments Focus on Providing Mental Health Services
From community support programs to residential treatment facilities, counties are at the forefront of providing critical mental health services to Wisconsin citizens. Learn more about the growing need for these services, and the work of local governments here.
Take a Listen: #LocalGovMatters Podcast Features Create Wisconsin: Arts, Community, Economy
Join #LocalGovMatters as they sit down with Create Wisconsin Executive Director Anne Katz to discuss the vital role arts play in our economy, our schools and our communities here in the state. Listen to the podcast here.
Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin joined UniverCity Alliance for a celebration highlighting statewide partnerships on Sept. 13
UniverCity Alliance’s mission is to improve the quality and visibility of UW-Madison’s education, research, and service contribution to the high-road development of local communities that reflects the values of equity, democracy, and sustainability.
Report Explores Coming Senior Care Challenges
A report from Forward Analytics, "On the Brink: Probing Upcoming Senior Care Challenges," looks at pending impacts of aging Baby Boomers, including staffing issues. Learn more here.
County Government Brochure Released
Learn more about county government in Wisconsin in a new brochure recently released by the Wisconsin Counties Association, "County Government History, Services Funding" by clicking here.
Microsoft Announces $3.3 Billion Investment in Wisconsin to Spur AI Innovation and Economic Growth
Microsoft has announced a broad investment package designed to strengthen the role of SE Wisconsin as a hub for AI-powered economic activity, innovation, and job creation. Read the article by Microsoft Source here.
'The Best it Can Be'; Manitowoc Aims to Connect Natural Beauty to Downtown
As downtown Manitowoc grows, there's a focus on staying connected to the beautiful Lakeshore. The city discussed the importance of connecting growth with our natural resources with Ch. 26. Watch it here.
Our Mission
Innovative Approaches to Community Engagement
LGI explores new strategies for engaging citizens in local governance and decision-making processes, fostering a sense of community and participation.
Sustainable Development and Green Infrastructure
LGI works to engage with initiatives and projects focused on sustainable development, green infrastructure, and environmental conservation efforts within local government systems.
Education and Outreach
LGI engages with our citizenry to educate about the important role of local government in our communities. These outreach efforts include social media campaigns, online community engagement and web resources.
About The Local Government Institute of Wisconsin
The Local Government Institute of Wisconsin is dedicated to serving as a platform for sharing knowledge and best practices in local governance in our state.
We work to facilitate discussions, provide resources, and promote collaboration among local government professionals and stakeholders.
Meet the LGI Board
Voting Board Members
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​​​Lance Pliml, President of the Local Government Institute of Wisconsin, County Board Chair, Wood County; Wisconsin Counties Association Representative
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Jerry Wehrle, Vice President of the Local Government Institute of Wisconsin
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Ryan Sorenson, Mayor of Sheboyan, Urban Alliance Representative
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Jean Jacobson (Treasurer), Chair, Town of Norway, Racine County; Public Board Member
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Geena Skowronski, City Administrator for Town of Elroy, League of Wisconsin Municipalities Representative
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William Mielke, CEO, Ruekert-Mielke; Public Board Member
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Joseph Moore, City Manager, City of Fond du Lac; League of Wisconsin Municipalities Representative​
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Mike Pagel, Town Chair, Town of Lanark, Portage County; Wisconsin Towns Association Representative​​
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Non-Voting Board Members
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Timothy Hanna, Executive Director of the Local Government Institute of Wisconsin
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Mark D. O’Connell, President & CEO, Wisconsin Counties Association
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Jerry Deschane, Executive Director, League of Wisconsin Municipalities
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Mike Koles, Executive Director, Wisconsin Towns Association
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Purpose: Collaborate with others to find solutions for the efficient delivery and funding of local government services consistent with the needs of our citizens.
GOVERNANCE
The Local Government Institute is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of ten voting members—six “association directors” and four “public directors”. The six association directors consist of two directors appointed by the Wisconsin Counties Association (WCA), two directors appointed by the League of Wisconsin Municipalities (LWM), one director appointed by the Urban Alliance of the League of Municipalities, and one director appointed by the Wisconsin Towns Association (WTA). The six association directors select the four “public directors”.
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors elects the following officers: president, vice-president, secretary, and treasurer. All officers serve for one year. The heads of the three local government associations serve as non-voting members of the Board of Directors.
ADVISORY BOARDS
The Board of Directors may elect to establish Advisory Boards. The purpose of an Advisory Board is to advise the Board of Directors on matters requiring special expertise, knowledge or experience to enhance the ability of the Board of Directors to accomplish the mission of the Local Government Institute.
The Board of Directors meets bi-monthly.
“Collaboration and innovation are essential for building stronger and more resilient local governments, and it begins with each of us taking proactive steps towards positive change.”
― The Local Government Institute of Wisconsin