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In early 2020, I was enjoying a CCMF dinner in Napa during the Cal Cities City Managers Conference, unaware that the world was about to hit the “pause” button. Returning to Napa this year for the same conference felt like a profound “full circle” moment.
Six years ago, the air was thick with tension — one born of an uncertain, looming threat. Last week, the vibe in Napa was markedly different. The “endemic phase” has settled in, and the time dominated by social distancing and isolation are now a distant memory — replaced once again by the sincerity of a firm handshake and the clarity of in-person eye contact.
Walking through the Meritage Resort, I noticed a jubilant energy. People are excited to see each other and hungry for the “magical” collaboration that only happens in person. There is a renewed sense of camaraderie among city managers who weathered the 100-year test of the pandemic. We — and our communities — are all changed for it, and have learned to appreciate the power of human connection and to not take these in-person opportunities for granted. Had we known six years ago that we wouldn’t be in-person again for nearly two years, how much more would we have appreciated our time together?
Tripepi Smith has grown up in the last six years. In 2020, we were a team of 20. This year, we are a “rock star squad” of nearly 80, including 11 at the conference, showing up with our signature green attire and a mission to be an institution of local government. While the staff growth has been quite a ride, the experience growth among the entire team has been a game changer.
It was good to be back in the “room where it happens,” breaking bread with the people who keep our cities running and who lead the organizations that deliver for communities every day through pandemics and endemics.
Cheers,
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