12 September 2013

City policy analyst awarded Fellowship

Peter Ridge policy analyst for Palmerston North City Council has been awarded an International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Exchange Fellowship.

The Fellowship is run in partnership with the New Zealand Society of Local Government Managers (SOLGM) which is a local government professional management organisation that builds capability and promotes work excellence among local government managers.

The Fellowship is a four week exchange to the United States of America, including two weeks working with the Dubuque City Council in Iowa.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity,” Peter said. “I’m looking forward to learning new ways of looking at things, and having my perspective challenged. I’ll be able to bring these experiences and ideas back to Palmerston North, and contribute to improving how we engage with our communities.”

The US Department of State has provided funding to enable the ICMA to undertake an international exchange programme with four countries, Australia, China, Thailand and New Zealand.

Sheryl Bryant, general manager for City Future says Peter was one of six awardees throughout the country chosen from a tough field.

“This is well-deserved recognition of his contribution to local government and the Palmerston North City Council,” Sheryl said.

“We have been fortunate to now have two recipients of this Fellowship and are grateful for the opportunity provided by SOLGM and ICMA.”

The City of Dubuque, cityofdubuque.org, is situated along the Mississippi River and has a population of approximately 60,000. It has a Mayor and six elected City Council members and has international recognition as a leader in sustainability. Palmerston North is likely to host a local government official from Dubuque in return, in early 2014.

ends

© Scoop Media