Civil Municipal Magazine Aug 2023

81 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 8 Tackling Workforce Challenges: The Cumming Conundrum City Administrator Phil Higgins openly acknowledges the shared challenges that the City of Cumming faces in workforce development, a phenomenon that is resonating across the country. “We’re not immune to the problem that everyone is facing with the workforce,” he admits, reflecting on how the dynamics of the labor market have been reshaped in recent years. In its mission to attract talent, the city has ventured into the digital realm. “We have tried many different things with social media,” says Higgins, demonstrating a willingness to leverage modern platforms to connect with potential employees. A recent initiative that epitomizes their innovative approach is the inaugural City of Cumming job fair. With 40 participants and four successful hires, Higgins highlights the event as a “success for our first run at it.” Armed with the lessons learned, the CUMMING , GA For a Healthier Future Together LOOK TO NORTHSIDE Look to the experts at northside.com