How can local governments around Pittsburgh begin responsibly using AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot? In this session, leaders from the City of Pittsburgh will share how they developed the City’s AI Guidelines & Standards, their strategy for responsible adoption, and early examples of how generative AI is being used internally to improve productivity and public service.

Participants will also see a short version of Pittsburgh’s Generative AI workshop, providing practical insights into how local government staff can begin using generative AI tools safely and effectively.

When: Thursday, May 21, 2026 from 11 AM to 12 PM

Learning objectives include:

1. Understanding the risks associated with AI and its use in the Public Domain
2. Learn best practices when using Generative AI
3. Identify specific actions municipalities can implement to protect data and privacy

REGISTER HERE

Local Government Academy is pleased to partner with the Southwest Section of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Planning Association to offer “Planning 101” a webinar series on core functions of planning staff and officials at the municipal and county level. The webinars emphasize best practices, consistency with the Municipalities Planning Code, and adding value to efforts to improve your community.

The sessions will be worthy of AICP CM credits, and informative for lay planning and zoning officials, elected and appointed officials, municipal planners, and community development professionals.

Registration Fee: $10 for CM Credits; Free for all otherwise

TYPE OF SESSION

Presentation of best practices, Q&A

TARGET AUDIENCE

Professional and citizen planners, beginner to intermediate skill level

Schedule/Format: Live Lunch & Learn (12:30 -1:30 PM) webinar Fourth Wednesday May – August 2026

REGISTER BELOW:

The Newly Elected Officials Course (NEOC) is a comprehensive program for public officials to build a solid foundation of knowledge essential to effective governing. Focusing on the unique needs of local government, and featuring expert instructors, each session takes a deep dive into subjects such as municipal finance, public sector personnel law, the Public Officials Act, ethical decision making, emergency services, and more.

While unique for its depth of content, NEOC is designed to help incoming elected and appointed officials develop their leadership skills and build important relationships. Peer-to-Peer engagement offers opportunities to grow your network and find mentors from other public service professionals.

Saturday workshop sessions will offer a comfortable learning environment and safe opportunities to network with instructors and municipal resource partners.

For more information: See our NEOC page

Thank you to all who attended and supported the Promoting Excellence Golf Outing on Thursday, August 14, 2025. We look forward to welcoming you all on Monday, August 17th at our new location South Hills Country Club, 4305 Brownsville Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15236. Don’t miss your opportunity to experience this renowned course and participate in challenging skill competitions for a chance to win great prizes!

The Promoting Excellence Golf Outing is held to raise money for the Michael Lynch Scholarship Fund, and to ensure that the Academy has the resources needed to provide non-partisan education to public officials and staff, regardless of ability to pay.

Click Here to view the 2025 Photo Album