Lakeland’s recent announcement that it will resurrect the Leadership Lakeland program after an absence of somewhere close to 20 years could provide more informed candidates in future elections.

Reporter Michael Waddell was clicking on the keyboard about the plan this week, outlining the reasons and the plans for the idea.

“I wish this had been here when I first became a commissioner,” Commissioner Connie McCarter said.

And that’s the point of all this, right? To allow citizens a chance to learn more about their city and see if that transitions into serving, whether on a citizen commission or in an elected position.

There are similar concepts throughout the other suburbs in Shelby County. Citizen police academies. Other leadership classes. Volunteer groups to supplement government efforts.

Lakeland is still setting its direction. They are planning for a nine-month test run, meeting at a monthly lunch. City Manager Emily Harrell, who is leading the effort, said they are considering sessions on things like government operations, planning for growth and economic development.

But organizers still want to fine-tune some of the program and will use the first “class” — with members of the school system, chamber and city boards — as sort of a barometer for what works.

“We want everybody to go through first and tell us what we need to do to make any changes to make sure it’s successful,” Harrell said.

For a lot of elected officials, going through the Leadership (fill in the name) of their city set their political careers in motion. A number of candidates for office make sure they list their leadership class as a part of their resume.

That kind of makes sense. Their interest in the class reflects their interest in the city. If they are selected to participate, it shows that maybe they have the qualifications.

Leadership Germantown is preparing to celebrate its 30th year in September.

“It encouraged me to want to be involved — I’m on a commission now — and to serve in the community more,” Matt May, a Leadership Germantown alum, said. 

Bartlett’s version of the leadership program is connected to the Bartlett Area Chamber of Commerce. John Threadgill, the long-time president of the suburb’s chamber, said bringing public and private sectors together helps enhance the city.

“Everything starts at the local level,” he said, “and the leadership programs ensure that people have the knowledge needed to help make their community a better place for everyone.” - Suburbs editor Clay Bailey

We hope you enjoy reading the latest news from our suburban reporters. If you’re a Daily Memphian subscriber, we appreciate your support. If not, please sign up for unlimited access to all of our local news coverage.

Lakeland earmarks future TIF revenues to offset trash fee increases By Michael Waddell

Collierville fire chief retires and resigns By Abigail Warren

Retired Collierville fire chief, mayor speak out By Abigail Warren

After decades in fire service, Selberg says retirement came as a shock By Abigail Warren

Grandkids of Germantown residents could attend suburb's schools for free By Abigail Warren

Mississippi redistricting town hall centers on one question: What's fair? By Aarron Fleming

Former youth pastor Lindsey Whiteside to change plea in federal criminal case By Aarron Fleming

After passing its first test, improved Bartlett looking for more By John Varlas

Millington seeks input for future of Harrold building By Abigail Warren

.....