A man with his suit jacket slung over his left shoulder stands on a road looking at a city in the near distance. On the left side of the image, the city is grayer. On the right side it's more brightly lit.

As we reach the midpoint of 2025, municipal clerks should prepare for continued-and accelerating-change in the months ahead. The rapid evolution of technology, rising citizen expectations, and ongoing budget and staffing pressures are shaping the landscape for local government professionals. Here’s what to anticipate and how to stay ahead:

Upcoming Changes and Trends

  • AI and Automation: Expect broader adoption of AI-driven tools and automation for administrative tasks, citizen inquiries, and workflow management. These technologies will help clerks do more with less, especially as demand for services grows and staffing remains tight.

  • Cloud Migration and Integration: More municipalities will move data and services to the cloud, improving security, scalability, and cost efficiency. Integration between platforms via APIs will be crucial to streamline operations, reduce fragmentation, and enable real-time data sharing.

  • Enhanced Digital Citizen Engagement: Residents increasingly expect proactive, digital-first services-think online applications, instant notifications, and 24/7 self-service portals. The focus will be on improving user experience and accessibility to build trust and reduce cognitive load for residents.

  • Cybersecurity and Data Privacy: With more digital services comes greater responsibility for data security. Anticipate new privacy regulations and heightened scrutiny of cybersecurity protocols, requiring ongoing vigilance and possibly new investments.

  • Professional Development: The need for continuous learning will intensify. Clerks will benefit from professional development opportunities, networking, and upskilling to keep pace with new technologies and evolving regulations.

Advice and Suggestions for the Second Half of 2025

  • Embrace Technology Thoughtfully: Prioritize automation and cloud solutions that integrate with your current systems. Look for platforms that simplify repetitive tasks and support mobile work, freeing up time for higher-value activities.

  • Focus on User Experience: When implementing new digital services, involve residents in the process. Test for accessibility, clarity, and ease of use to ensure solutions truly meet community needs.

  • Strengthen Cybersecurity: Review and update your cybersecurity policies regularly. Stay informed about new privacy laws and best practices, and consider staff training or external audits to bolster your defenses.

  • Invest in Professional Growth: Attend conferences, workshops, and webinars to learn about the latest trends and best practices. Networking with peers can provide valuable insights and support as you navigate change.

  • Get Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable: Change can be unsettling, but it’s also an opportunity for growth. Foster a culture of adaptability within your team, encourage open communication about challenges, and celebrate small wins along the way.

How OnBoardGOV can help

OnBoardGOV stands out as a secure, user-friendly platform that streamlines board and committee management. The Meeting Center allows interdepartmental collaboration on board agendas, minutes, documents, and communications, and puts them at your fingertips. Its intuitive features  help reduce manual workload, improve transparency, and keep your team organized and engaged-no matter how fast things change.

The second half of 2025 will bring both challenges and opportunities for municipal clerks. By staying proactive, embracing innovation, and prioritizing both security and citizen experience, you’ll be well-positioned to lead your community through whatever comes next.