Leading Through the Red: Smarter Strategies for Budget Challenges | Ep.8

2025-07-08

“When the numbers go red, that’s when true leadership shows its color.” Budget deficits are no longer isolated events; they’re becoming the norm in cities and counties across the country. In this candid solo episode of Gov360, host Chris Mann shares what he’s learned from leading not one, but two cities through structural budget deficits. Drawing on over 25 years in and around local government, Chris unpacks the three biggest mistakes city leaders often make when responding to financial crises – and what to do instead.

“When the numbers go red, that’s when true leadership shows its color.”

Budget deficits are no longer isolated events; they’re becoming the norm in cities and counties across the country. In this candid solo episode of Gov360, host Chris Mann shares what he’s learned from leading not one, but two cities through structural budget deficits.

Drawing on over 25 years in and around local government, Chris unpacks the three biggest mistakes city leaders often make when responding to financial crises – and what to do instead.

This episode goes beyond spreadsheets and cuts to the heart of the issue: trust, leadership, and long-term sustainability. From strategic revenue generation and cost recovery, to transparent public communication and rethinking public safety funding models, this is a roadmap for navigating the red without losing your way.

🧭 What You’ll Learn:

Why across-the-board cuts often make things worse
How to find strategic revenue without raising taxes
The role of cost recovery in restoring fiscal health
How transparent communication builds trust and support
Why cities must rethink how they fund public safety
Real-world examples from cities managed by Gov360 host Chris Mann

🔗 Featured Topics:

Structural deficits in local government
Enterprise strategies and non-tax revenue
EMS subscription and rental inspection programs
Public safety cost escalation and funding models
Building community trust during financial crises

📌 Resources & Mentions:

“Yucaipa: Community at a Crossroads” video https://youtu.be/UlaRVHSILM8?si=NGa5eyhGyWNoSeRt
Measure S (Yucaipa’s successful 1% sales tax measure) https://yucaipa.gov/financial-fix/
Gov360 Episode 3: Winning at Social Media in Local Government with Sam Toles https://youtu.be/5MgughL1LuA?si=BnPUhKmKhSLIt9WY

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