Kalamazoo Times

Engaging Local Government Leaders (ELGL), a professional association of government leaders in the U.S. plus Canada, the United Kingdom, Israel, and Australia, is recognizing City of Kalamazoo Chief Operating Officer Laura Lam as among the Top 100 Local Government Influencers for 2022.

ELGL each year celebrates the work of public servants and the daily challenges they face in serving their respective communities.  This is the first year that Lam has been chosen by ELGL as a member of this national group of highly regarded local leaders.

“I am grateful to be selected by the ELGL for this honor,” said Lam.  “This recognition is a testament to the great work of our entire city organization in supporting and strengthening the community we serve.”

Lam has been with the City of Kalamazoo since 2009 and recently was promoted to the position of Chief Operating Officer after serving for four years as a deputy city manager.  As Chief Operating Officer, Lam collaborates with City Manager James Ritsema in setting and driving organizational vision, culture, and operating strategy.  Her other duties include cultivating and strengthening relationships with partners to advance community goals and actions.  Last year, Governor Whitmer appointed Lam to serve as a member of the Local Community Stabilization Authority Board.

“It is no surprise that Laura Lam is recognized as among the nation’s top local government influencers,” Ritsema said.  “She is a true rock star for the City of Kalamazoo and is known throughout the city as a dynamic leader.  She brings the passion and commitment needed to support the City of Kalamazoo.”

Original source can be found here.