I have learned through time as a leader that my success does not hinge on me, but rather on those I surround myself with. When I first came to Pekin, as the new police chief, this held true as I learned who the leaders within the City were and how they functioned. I also learned from several staff, as we developed relationships, of their dedication to the community and passion for everything Pekin. I quickly learned what a Pekinite means to many. 

Recently, we had the unique opportunity to dig up and open a time capsule. This was not a simple undertaking. I think what stood out the most to me was the importance of “Pekin” to those involved. This brought us all together to represent the best of the City of Pekin. As I stood back and watched many of city staff found time to somehow be involved. They were excited. They were dedicated and this was very important to all of them. They do care contrary to some of the dialogue out there.

This past year we brought back employee recognition as we have re-established the holiday luncheon for staff. This allowed the staff time to connect with one another and build interdepartmental relationships. In June, department heads and elected officials hosted a cook out for staff in appreciation for all of their hard work. Yes, they are working hard. It is so easy to focus on negative things, but what many do not choose to recognize are the positive things happening. So, I would personally like to thank all of the City of Pekin employees for all of the hard work you do.

The focus moving forward is to continue on the positive path these individuals are forging as we work to right the ship. There is a lot of work ahead for all of us, but what I have seen, and so have others, is a renewed dedication. We are changing a culture. What was once referred to as, “we have always done it this way” is now referred to as, “what can we do different to be better?”

As the City Manager, I believe it is important to allow staff to have the opportunity to do their job. Afterall they are the expert in that position, right?  Yes, they may make some mistakes along the way, but that is how we learn. It is ok to make mistakes, so long as we correct them and move forward. This is the culture our leadership is trying to foster. We are a team and we are making decisions together to move the city in a positive direction. As stated by Frances Hesselbein, “Culture does not change because we desire to change it. Culture changes when the organization is transformed; the culture reflects the realities of people working together every day.”

Pekin is a work in process, and this change will not happen overnight. We are however, on the right path. All because of these dedicated individuals.