Council–manager government

Council–manager government

The council–manager government is a system of local government that combines the strong political leadership of elected officials in the form of a city council with the strong managerial experience of an appointed local government manager. This system is used in many cities and counties across the United States and other countries.

History

The council–manager form of government was first adopted in Staunton, Virginia in 1908. It was part of the Progressive Era reforms aimed at reducing corruption and increasing efficiency in local government. The system was designed to professionalize local government by separating the political and administrative functions.

Structure

In a council–manager government, the city council is the legislative body responsible for making policy decisions. The council is elected by the public and is accountable to the electorate. The council appoints a professional manager to oversee the administrative operations, implement its policies, and advise it.

City Council

The city council typically consists of a mayor and several council members. The mayor may be elected at-large or by the council members, depending on the city's charter. The council's responsibilities include passing ordinances, adopting budgets, and setting overall policy.

City Manager

The city manager is appointed by the city council and serves at its pleasure. The manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the city, including hiring and supervising staff, preparing the budget, and implementing council policies. The manager acts as the chief executive officer of the city.

Advantages

The council–manager system is praised for its professional management and nonpartisan administration. It allows for a clear separation of politics and administration, which can lead to more efficient and effective governance. The system also provides flexibility, as the manager can be replaced if the council is dissatisfied with their performance.

Criticisms

Critics of the council–manager system argue that it can lead to a lack of accountability, as the manager is not directly elected by the public. There is also concern that the system can concentrate too much power in the hands of the manager, potentially leading to a "managerial elite."

Adoption

The council–manager form of government is the most popular form of local government in the United States for cities with populations over 10,000. It is also used in other countries, including Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand.

See also

• Mayor–council government
• Commission government
• Local government in the United States

References

• Svara, James H. "The Facilitative Leader in City Hall: Reexamining the Scope and Contributions." Public Administration Review, vol. 59, no. 1, 1999, pp. 30-43.
• "Council-Manager Form of Government." International City/County Management Association.

External links

• International City/County Management Association