It’s said that a good public servant mingles with his constituents so he can get to know them. 

East Lansdowne’s mayor Joe Bland is doing that as an Uber driver, writes Matt DeLucia for NBC 10 Philadelphia.

Mayor Bland said it’s a great way to find out what’s on people’s minds and to learn about issues like food insecurity and housing.

He can also check out the neighborhoods. On a recent call, he noticed a trash problem that needed fixing.

“Being able to connect with folks and talk about their life story, sharing my life story, and from that, it’s truly making me a better leader,” he said.

The mayor uses his own car and works on his own time.

The idea to turn to Uber came from a colleague who thought Mayor Bland’s love of driving would make him an ideal candidate for Rideshare.

Hundreds of Uber rides later, it’s been a win-win for the mayor. Not only does it help him be a better leader, but he’s also earned a stellar approval rating as an Uber driver.

“There’s been some great conversations,” he said., adding that people really love to give their opinions.

Find out more about Joe Bland and his unique way of connecting with people at NBC 10 Philadelphia.