Incoming ICMA President Mike Land, ICMA-CM, delivered his first presidential address at the 2025 ICMA Annual Conference in Tampa/Hillsborough County, Florida. Land serves as city manager of Coppell, Texas.

“We don’t seek the spotlight. The spotlight finds us. We are the center of tension, not the center of attention. We serve something greater than ourselves. We are the quiet guardians of our community’s soul. We are faithful to this profession because we choose to do it. And ICMA is looking forward to serving you.”

In his address, President Land 

• Highlighted the crucial role of local government professionals in addressing community challenges through natural disasters, budget crises, and social issues.
• Underscored the importance of ethical leadership in public service.
• Emphasized ICMA's mission to serve its 14,500 members, who impact over 100 million people worldwide, and urged attendees to be beacons of democracy and unity. 

Listen to his story and hear the charge he sets forth for ICMA as we move forward.