At Tripepi Smith, we have a saying: “Excel Can't Lie.” You can craft brilliant prose or frame an elegant philosophy to support your message, but at the end of the day, one plus one equals two.

We saw this firsthand when partnering with the City of Yorba Linda on a land use ballot measure called Measure JJ. Two years prior, a similar measure failed with only 25% voter support. Rather than relying on online chatter or assumptions, the city analyzed previous data, identified key gaps in understanding and shifted its engagement and information outreach strategy. Armed with empirical insights, the TS/City team executed 32 community meetings, collaborated on animated explainer videos and pushed digital outreach to ensure that all residents understood the measure and the stark policy choice. That data-driven, fact-focused pivot changed viewpoints: Measure JJ passed with 90% support. 

In mid-September, as fall projects kick off and city halls digest feedback from summer outreach, municipal leaders are swamped with input. It is easy to feel overwhelmed when a vocal group at public comment or a viral thread in a Facebook Group claims to speak for “the entire community.” That is precisely where data steps in as your best friend.

Relying solely on anecdotal feedback or whoever speaks the loudest is a recipe for heartburn. To make sound policy and operational decisions, agencies need objective data to separate localized noise from overall community sentiment. Statistically valid community surveys, heat-mapped service requests, GIS mapping and website analytics give you a clearer look at what your residents actually care about — whether that’s fixing potholes, upgrading park restrooms or maintaining public safety.

Data doesn't replace leadership or empathy; it grounds them. It gives elected officials and city staff the confidence to say, “We hear the concerns, and here is what thousands of our residents are telling us through the numbers.” 

So the next time a feisty online thread has you convinced that your entire community wants more pickleball courts instead of paved roads, take a deep breath, pull up a spreadsheet and trust the numbers.

Relish the Data,

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• Social media news to know – September 2026
• Bella White joins Team TS as executive assistant
• Tripepi Smith expands public engagement expertise with Davenport Program
• City of Newark selects Alicia Day as new recreation and community services director following TS Talent Solutions executive search
• Tripepi Smith celebrates Director Christine Martin upon retirement
• Tripepi Smith to attend the 2026 League of California Cities Annual Conference
• Tripepi Smith heads to Yosemite for the 2026 MMANC Annual Conference
• Tripepi Smith to attend the California JPIA Risk Management Educational Forum

Tripepi Smith is proud to partner with the League of California Cities (Cal Cities), a statewide association dedicated to strengthening California cities through advocacy and education.

Most recently, the Tripepi Smith team provided media training for Cal Cities, equipping local government leaders with the tools and confidence to effectively communicate with the media and their communities.

Speaking to the media provides an exciting opportunity for public sector professionals to share clear, impactful stories. With Tripepi Smith’s guidance, your team can confidently refine their skills and elevate their media relations strategy to shine in any setting — from routine inquiries to high-stakes breaking news.

To ensure long-term growth, all participants receive professional feedback and a recording of their interviews. This allows for reflective self-evaluation, helping staff see exactly how they come across to the public and where they can sharpen their delivery.

Meet Director Mark Pulone! Mark brings thirty-five years of municipal government experience, highlighted by nineteen years as a city manager in Orange County. Known as a proven leader and consensus builder, he has built a strong reputation for exceptional customer service and effective community engagement.

Mark brings extensive experience managing a wide range of municipal contracts, including law enforcement, fire, solid waste, road maintenance and building and safety services.

About Tripepi Smith

Tripepi Smith provides marketing, technology and public affairs solutions for private companies and public agencies. Whether you’re redoing your website, driving an email campaign, shooting a video or launching on Facebook, Tripepi Smith can help.

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