Balancing Laws, Citizens, and City Growth (with Deborah Sorensen) | Ep. 6

On this episode of Ground Floor Government, host David Plappert sits down with Deborah Sorensen, City Secretary of Rowlett, Texas. Deborah shares how rules, laws, and codes shape what cities can and cannot do, highlighting the importance of the Open Meetings Act, the Public Information Act, and election laws.ㅤShe describes the Action Center in Rowlett, a one stop shop for citizens who need help navigating city services, and reflects on juggling multiple roles each week, from preparing agendas and minutes to elections and public information requests. Deborah also talks about leading Rowlett to its first Municipal Clerks Office Achievement of Excellence Award, the challenges of new state legislation, and the importance of transparency and trust with citizens.ㅤListeners will hear her perspective on communication trends, citizen engagement, and the personal side of public service, including being “on” 24/7 as a city representative.ㅤ👤 Guest BioDeborah Sorensen is the City Secretary of Rowlett, Texas. She has served in local government for 17 years, beginning with an Economic Development Corporation role, later working as a paralegal, and then moving into city secretary positions in multiple Texas cities. She joined Rowlett in January 2025, where she continues her commitment to transparency, elections, and citizen service.ㅤ📌 What We CoverLaws and codes that govern city operations, including the Open Meetings Act and Public Information ActThe Action Center in Rowlett as a one stop shop for citizensPreparing agendas, minutes, ordinances, resolutions, elections, and information requestsBalancing an unpredictable workload and citizen interactions dailyReceiving the Municipal Clerks Office Achievement of Excellence Award in Rowlett and previous citiesChallenges from recent state legislation limiting city authorityBuilding transparency and trust with the public, especially when facing criticismCommunication methods used in Rowlett, from videos and social platforms to senior engagementThe growth of Rowlett from a rural city to a metroplex community of nearly 70,000Advice for those entering local government: thick skin, compassion, and prioritizing citizensㅤ🔗 Resources MentionedTexas Municipal Clerks AssociationMunicipal Clerks Office Achievement of Excellence Award