Playing the civic innovation accordion

By Bob Bennett, Chief Innovation Officer, Kansas City, Missouri

My favourite rock star is eleven years old. Like many parents, we spend ‘quality time’ together driving to and from extra-curricular activities. In his case, this involves guitar lessons at the School of Rock. I usually let him choose the music for the car ride; this gives me a glimpse into what he finds ‘cool’.

Recently, one selection came from Weird Al Yankovic and featured a wicked accordion solo. My first thought: How can Weird Al still be producing music? He and Keith Richards have the longevity thing figured out. My second thought: My job is a less wicked and a much less cool accordion solo.

Civic innovation does ...