MUNICIPAL LEADERS, EXPERTS CALL SUMMIT A SUCCESS

Say Dialogue, Collaboration Key to Municipal Innovation  

(MADISON, NJ) – Municipal leaders and subject matter experts are calling Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Rothman Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurships’ May 11 Municipal Innovation Summit a huge success.

More than 130 attendees participated in a half day event complete with panel discussions, networking, featured speakers and an awards presentation.

“Forums, like this one, do not exist in our state when it comes to innovation in municipal government,” said New Providence Councilman Rob Munoz, a participant and innovation awardee. “We must continue the conversation.”

“I was blown away by the experts that participated in the panel discussions,” said Chris Hartwyk, business administrator for the city of Orange and panel moderator. “For me, access to these professionals is key to driving innovation.”

“The feedback from our event has been incredibly positive, inspiring, and thought provoking,” said Ken DeRoberts, CEO of Government Strategy Group, the firm producing the event. “There will be another event and more dialogue.”

Participants had the option of attending one of five panel discussions during the breakout sessions. These panels included:

• Smart Cities 1: How to implement P3 infrastructure and facilities
• 5G Mobile Communication is Coming in Hot: What you need to know to leverage this network in your municipality
• Technology Apps in the Cloud: Increase security and service while controlling costs
• Five Keys to Goal Setting & Strategic Planning: Control the future of your community
• Constituent Communication Techniques: Are you sure your messaging is reaching your residents?

“Thought leadership, collaboration and innovation is what it’s going to take for the municipal sector to catch-up with the advancements being made in the marketplace,” said Tim Diassi, senior vice president, Unicorn HRO, a technology firm. “The future of government services relies on it.”

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