When you think about our town mayor or other politicians, do you picture a celebrity - aloof and unapproachable? Derek France, Mayor of Flower Mound, is determined to change that perception! 

A local businessman, Mayor France's first foray into local politics was joining the Animal Services Board and Veterans Board, a route which he highly recommends. It helped him understand how much local politics matter and that local politicians are just regular people. 

Mayor France loves the numerous opportunities being Mayor gives him to connect with the community - from reading at the elementary school to speaking at business meetings. He explains Flower Mound's government is a “weak mayor system” with responsibilities split among a council.  As Mayor, he provides guidance, while the city manager handles operational decisions.  He and the council members serve as volunteers - these are not paid positions.

Positivity is inherent to his leadership style, as he encourages residents to have fun and get involved. 

Because there are so many places in the community for people to volunteer and events to enjoy, Mayor France has started his own email newsletter summarizing the options. This email combines information coming from Town departments like Parks and Recreation, with upcoming event calendars of citizen groups like the Chamber and Rotary Club. Signing up means you won’t miss any of the ways to be involved in Flower Mound, so follow the link below to get on the list!

Mayor France takes his work for the people of Flower Mound very much to heart, so next time you see him at the grocery store, don’t be afraid to stop and say “hi!”

Takeaways from this episode:

1. Local government is very important. Everyone should get involved!
2. Three easy ways to do that are through volunteering for a town council board or commission, joining a local club, and attending town council meetings. 
3. Local government officials aren’t celebrities, they work for the people of the town.
4. Making your voice heard is what keeps Flower Mound a thriving community!

What should citizens do?

1. Get educated about what's going on in the community
2. Volunteer for a Board or Commission
3. Join a local club
4. Attend Town Council meetings

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Be in the know of everything Flower Mound:

https://flower-mound.com/

https://www.facebook.com/FlowerMound

Subscribe to Derek France's newsletter:

https://derekfrance.com/

Connect to Mayor Derek France on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MayorDerekFrance

To get receive the framework to help you know yourself better, or to know someone deeper, email me: nicole@nicolesmith.net

To listen to previous episodes, and to submit your application as a guest, please visit:

https://aroundflowermound.com/