BerryDunn Returns to ICMA 2026 to Share Expertise and Help Local Governments Navigate Today's Challenges

Local government consulting team to present educational session on strategic planning

PORTLAND, Maine--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BerryDunn, a full-service accounting, tax, and consulting firm, will return to the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Annual Conference for its 11th year, continuing a long-standing commitment to supporting and strengthening local government organizations. The firm's local government team will join public sector leaders from across the country to share insights, discuss emerging challenges, and exchange ideas that help communities operate more effectively and better serve their constituents.

A highlight of this year’s conference is a featured panel discussion led by Karen Whichard, a Manager in BerryDunn’s Local Government Practice Group, titled From Paper to Progress: Making Strategic Plans Work in the Real World. Through real-world experiences and practical lessons, the panel will explore how organizations can sustain momentum, navigate leadership transitions, maintain accountability, and turn long-term goals into measurable results.

The session includes perspectives from leaders representing local governments in Texas, Colorado, and North Carolina. "Strategic plans provide direction, but successful implementation requires ongoing commitment, flexibility, and leadership," said Whichard. "We're excited to share lessons learned from organizations that have successfully translated vision into action and to learn from the experiences of other conference attendees."

The ICMA Annual Conference provides an opportunity for local government professionals to exchange ideas, learn from peers, and discover new approaches to addressing the challenges facing communities today. BerryDunn's team will be available throughout the conference at Booth #754 to connect on topics ranging from strategic planning and organizational assessments to ERP modernization, economic development, and public safety—key topics aligned with the firm's local government solutions and services.

Representing BerryDunn at ICMA are Kevin Price, Karen Whichard, and Maddi Powers Spencer. Together, they bring deep public sector experience and a shared commitment to helping local governments address both immediate operational needs and long-term organizational priorities. "For more than 30 years, we've partnered with local governments to help solve problems, improve operations, and prepare for what's next," said Seth Hedstrom, Principal and leader of the Local Government Practice Group at BerryDunn. "ICMA is one of the most valuable opportunities each year to connect with local government leaders, share knowledge, and learn directly from the professionals who are shaping the future of their communities."

BerryDunn's local government team includes consultants with extensive public sector experience, including many former local government leaders. The firm partners with municipal, county, regional, and quasi-governmental organizations nationwide to help strengthen operations, improve service delivery, and advance strategic initiatives.

About BerryDunn

BerryDunn is the brand name under which Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker, LLC and BDMP Assurance, LLP, independently owned entities, provide services. Since 1974, BerryDunn has helped businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies throughout the US and its territories solve their greatest challenges. The firm’s tax, advisory, and consulting services are provided by Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker, LLC, and its attest services are provided by BDMP Assurance, LLP, a licensed CPA firm. BerryDunn is a client-centered, people-first professional services firm with a mission to empower the meaningful growth of our people, clients, and communities. The firm has been recognized for its efforts in creating a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, and for its focus on learning, development, and well-being. Learn more at berrydunn.com.