Jon Amundson, City Manager of Richland, Washington, brings more than 20 years of experience in local government leadership. An ICMA Credentialed Manager, his career spans key roles in the city councils of Richland and Allen, Texas, where he advanced community-centered governance through strategic management and operational excellence. Recognized for cultivating effective, high-performing teams, he guides Richland’s vision for sustainable growth and responsive public service.
In an interview with the Govt Business Review, Jon Amundson shares his perspectives on how curiosity and collaboration shape effective local governance, emphasizing the importance of keeping trust and connection at the heart of successful public service. A Learning-Filled Journey to City Leadership Early in my career, I sought every opportunity to understand the full scope of municipal operations. From public works and finance to police, fire and parks, I sought to discover how each function connects to deliver effective community services. My commitment to learning led me to take up cross-departmental projects, including legislative agendas, facility planning and organizational development. These experiences reinforced my belief that great leaders are first and foremost learners who ask questions, seek diverse perspectives and communicate with clarity. Guided by the 80/20 principle, I continue to invest time in experiences that stretch my skills and broaden my understanding. I have also seen firsthand how communication serves as the foundation of trust. Whether explaining internal process changes or keeping residents informed during major winter events, I prioritize transparency and consistency to strengthen relationships and achieve shared results. The best preparation for leadership is exposure to people, processes and the many moving parts that make a city work. “Future in Focus” for the City’s Growth The Future in Focus initiative aligns our city’s growth with the values of connection and quality of life that make this community special. By combining land use, transportation and park planning, we ensure that our investments work in harmony to create a more connected and livable city. The plan weaves together residential, commercial, and recreational areas through enhanced walkability, increased access to open spaces and intentional design. It also promotes compact, sustainable growth that protects our natural environment and encourages economic vitality. The plan was also shaped through extensive community input, ensuring it reflects both the city’s vision and the people’s priorities. Community input has been at the heart of Future in Focus from the beginning. Through open houses, surveys and neighborhood meetings, residents share what they value most about living in Richland and what they hope for in its future. Their feedback directly influences how we approach neighborhood design, mobility, park access and environmental stewardship. The collaboration strengthens trust and builds a shared sense of ownership.The best preparation for leadership is exposure to people, processes and the many moving parts that make a city work.
