When Michael Di Lullo reflects on his twenty years in local government, he recognizes the lasting impact of committed leadership. Each step - from working in the local property tax assessment office as a summer student to leading major initiatives as the Chief Administrative Officer of the Municipality of Middlesex Centre - has taught him valuable lessons about how local government directly shapes community life.
From his office in Southwestern Ontario, he tackles daily challenges that affect residents: clean drinking water, safe roads, emergency services, and community spaces. His experience shows that meaningful change occurs at the municipal level. "Real change starts at the local level, where the majority of what impacts your life takes place," he emphasizes, highlighting the fundamental ways local decisions influence our daily experiences.
This belief drives his collaborative approach to leadership. Rather than viewing municipal government as just infrastructure and services, he sees it as a crucial connection point between citizens and their community. His work focuses on bridging gaps: between residents and their elected officials, between bold ideas and practical solutions, and between proven methods and innovative approaches. Through continuous learning and genuine partnership, he demonstrates how engaged local leadership can build stronger Canadian communities.
Finding Purpose in Local Governance
It all began with curiosity and a love for local politics. "Growing up, I was always attuned to what was happening in my community," he shares. His academic studies in political science and economics at Western University became the foundation for his career, blending a passion for governance with an entrepreneurial mindset. "I realized local government is essentially running a corporation, just one aimed at serving people."
While others might be drawn to federal or provincial politics, Michael saw unique opportunities in municipal work. He explains,
"Local government is where
you see the immediate impact of your efforts. From turning on a faucet to walking on a paved road, it all starts here. The majority of what impacts your daily life happens at the local level, and that's why I
gravitated to this field."
He credits his family and early exposure to community discussions as key influences in his path. "I grew up around debates about city issues, and that drew me to political science," he recalls. "But what solidified my choice was realizing I could make a bigger impact locally."
This early foundation of understanding local government's direct impact on daily life would prove invaluable as he began his hands-on journey in public service at the local level, setting the stage for a career dedicated to community improvement.
The Impact of Hands-On Experience
Michael's career began humbly as a summer student working in property taxation. "It wasn't glamorous," he admits, "but it gave me insight into public service and an opportunity to speak with residents about issues they deeply cared about." Over the next five summers, he gained invaluable experience.
"Handling concerns raised by upset taxpayers taught me patience and problem-solving. If you can navigate those conversations, you're prepared for almost anything."
He emphasizes that this early exposure was transformative. "There's a big difference between sitting in school and facing a frustrated resident across the counter," he explains. "That's where you learn patience, compromise, and the importance of communication."
This foundation set him on a path that included roles as a municipal clerk and later as a CAO.
"I've always set five-year career goals. Each step - whether managing elections as a city clerk or leading multiple departments - prepared me for the next challenge."
These formative experiences shaped not just his career trajectory but also his leadership philosophy, leading him to develop an approach that values both strategic thinking and emotional intelligence.
Leadership Through Engagement
Michael's approach to leadership is both strategic and empathetic. Over the years, he has developed a philosophy centered on collaboration. "Leadership isn't just about making decisions; it's about bringing people together and fostering an environment of trust and collaboration."
As CAO of Middlesex Centre, a municipality of roughly 20,000 residents, he oversees departments ranging from finance and public works to emergency services.
"I manage the municipality like a corporation, with different departments acting as the limbs and staff as the lifeblood. But at the heart of it is collaboration."
He employs a unique organizational structure he likens to Olympic rings. "I have circles of teams - senior management, middle managers, and administrative staff - all interconnected. This ensures everyone's voice is heard and fosters a culture of open communication," he explains. Meeting regularly with every 'ring' helps keep teams from operating as silos and communication flowing more freely.
This organizational structure demonstrates how traditional hierarchies can be reimagined to create more inclusive and effective public institutions, setting the stage for addressing the inevitable challenges that come with public service.
Navigating the Challenges of Public Service
Despite his successes, he is candid about the challenges of working in local government. "Resistance to change is one of the hardest hurdles," he admits. "You have to listen, understand different perspectives, and stay committed to the bigger picture."
He recounts navigating contentious projects, such as building a recreation center or addressing homelessness.
"There's always resistance. But you have to stay focused on the greater good. Patience is critical, especially when decisions take time."
He also emphasizes the importance of respecting the democratic process. "It can be frustrating when a well-prepared report gets deferred, but you have to respect the process and keep the long-term goal in mind," he says.
These challenges, while significant, have only strengthened his commitment to meaningful community engagement and transparent governance.
Bridging Gaps with Community Engagement
Community engagement is at the core of his work. He defines it as "ensuring a two-way dialogue between residents and the municipality. It's not just about broadcasting information but also about being receptive to feedback."
Under his leadership, Middlesex Centre has implemented live-streaming of council meetings, interactive budget tools, and in-person forums.
"Our goal is transparency. We want residents to have access to accurate information and feel empowered to participate."
He also highlights the importance of balancing technology with personal interaction. "We've embraced Artificial Intelligence and other tools to enhance services, but true engagement happens when you meet people where they are - whether that's at a town hall meeting, smaller meetings with community groups or through a community survey," he says.
For younger generations, he offers a grounding perspective:
"Real change starts locally. You might be passionate about global issues like climate change, but the solutions often begin in your own community."
This commitment to balanced, technology-enhanced engagement sets the foundation for innovation while maintaining the human connection essential to public service.
Looking Ahead: Embracing Innovation
He is optimistic about the future of local governance, particularly as it intersects with technology. Middlesex Centre has embraced innovative tools like Artificial Intelligence (AI) for leak detection in water systems and ice rink maintenance. "We're using AI to detect water leaks and optimize ice resurfacing, among other things," he explains. "It's exciting, but we have to approach it thoughtfully."
He remains committed to fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within his team.
"I tell my staff, if you think of something new and don't voice it, you're holding back progress. We're constantly pushing the envelope to improve services."
This forward-thinking approach, combined with his practical experience, informs his advice for those considering a career in public service.
6 Tips for Aspiring Public Servants
Michael’s practical insights serve as valuable guidance for the next generation of public servants.
Be Open to Moving and Adapting
Michael highlights the importance of flexibility in building a public service career: “You have to be open-minded about working and living in different communities. The opportunity might not come where you’re currently living - you have to earn your way to where the job is.”
Cultivate Patience and Compromise
“Patience and compromise are essential,” he says. “In politics, things take time. I’ve learned to respect the democratic process, even when decisions take longer than I’d like. You have to remember that meaningful change doesn’t happen overnight..”
Embrace Leadership Through Collaboration
He encourages fostering open communication and building strong teams: “Everyone’s voice is valuable. The more you listen and include others in decision-making, the better your outcomes will be.”
Learn to Handle Resistance to Change
Resistance to new ideas and initiatives is a common hurdle in public service. Michael advises persistence: “You have to listen, understand different perspectives, and stay committed to the bigger picture. When faced with public resistance, patience and consistent communication are key to overcoming it.”
Stay Curious and Keep Learning
Education doesn’t stop after earning a degree. “Just because I finished my formal education doesn’t mean the learning stopped,” he says. “I’m constantly signing up for workshops, reading leadership articles, and sharing insights with my team. Continuous learning keeps you sharp and adaptable.”
Build Confidence Through Participation
For younger generations, he advises joining clubs or debating societies to build critical skills: “If you can socialize with people and understand different points of view, you’ll gain confidence and learn how to communicate effectively - skills that are invaluable in public service.”
Leadership Rooted in Building Communities
Michael Di Lullo's journey extends beyond a standard career path; his work demonstrates the lasting impact of dedicated local leadership. With over twenty years of experience and innovative approaches, he has shown how municipal government shapes daily life in meaningful ways.
His message resonates with everyone in the community:
"Your voice matters. Real change starts at the local level, where the majority of what affects your life takes place. Don't take your community for granted. Participate in public meetings, write to your local officials, and share your concerns. You have the power to shape the decisions that impact your daily life."
This approach, grounded in teamwork and fueled by fresh ideas, charts a clear path forward. His work illustrates that connecting people, concepts, and solutions fosters strong communities where residents can thrive together. His example teaches us that vibrant cities and towns emerge from engaged citizens joining forces to drive positive local change.
More Resources
Michael has shared several resources and organizations that have been pivotal in his journey:
Ontario Municipal Administrators Association (OMAA) is a professional organization representing approximately 275 Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs) in Ontario, providing leadership, networking, and professional development opportunities for municipal managers.
Western University's MPA Program offers a Master of Public Administration degree, supported by an active Local Government Alumni Society that provides mentorship, networking, and annual conferences for graduates.
LinkedIn Groups are online professional communities where members with shared interests, industries, or career goals can connect, discuss relevant topics, exchange insights, and network with peers. These forums allow professionals to engage in meaningful conversations, share industry knowledge, ask questions, and build valuable relationships within their specific professional domains.
Middlesex Centre is a thriving municipality located in southwestern Ontario, Canada, situated north and west of London, with a population of about 20,000 spread across 588 square kilometers. The municipality comprises four growing settlement areas - Arva, Delaware, Komoka-Kilworth, and Ilderton - and offers a unique blend of rural charm and urban amenities, recently being recognized as one of Canada's Most Livable Cities in 2023.