New Report Reveals Critical Gaps in Local Government Leadership

Government Leadership Solutions Releases Executive Summary and Full Report of the 2025 State of Local Government Leadership Pipeline Study

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A new national study by Government Leadership Solutions reveals mounting concerns across the U.S. about the state of local government leadership pipelines, as public agencies grapple with a complex blend of internal and external pressures that threaten their long-term effectiveness.

The 2025 State of Local Government Leadership Pipeline Study - now available in full - highlights key challenges currently undermining leadership development efforts across cities, counties, and districts:

• Erosion of public trust (65%) continues to be a major barrier to effective governance.
• Talent retention struggles (59%) are straining workforce stability and institutional knowledge.
• Budget constraints (53%) are limiting investment in critical leadership development and succession planning programs.
• Toxic or misaligned workplace cultures are weakening leadership growth and organizational resilience.

Perhaps most strikingly, less than 18% of respondents rated their leadership pipeline as "Very Good" or "Excellent," and only 39% reported having a defined budget for leadership development.

"This year's findings paint a sobering picture," said Dr. Maria Church, CEO of Government Leadership Solutions. "Without deliberate investment in culture, talent, and leadership development, local governments will continue to face mounting pressure with fewer tools to respond."

To support leaders and stakeholders in navigating these realities, the executive summary of the 2025 study is now available for download. The full report, containing deeper insights and case studies, is also available upon request.

To download the Executive Summary, visit: https://resources.governmentleadershipsolutions.com/state-of-local-gov-download

For more information about the study, leadership briefings, or upcoming events, contact Government Leadership Solutions at the email above.

ABOUT GOVERNMENT LEADERSHIP SOLUTIONS

Government Leadership Solutions (GLS) empowers local governments with the tools, frameworks, and support needed to build strong leadership pipelines, strengthen workplace culture, and achieve strategic goals. GLS works alongside agencies to tackle evolving workforce demands with insight, innovation, and impact.

For more information, visit www.GovernmentLeadershipSolutions.com.

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SOURCE Government Leadership Solutions