councilmanager

A council-manager government is a form of municipal government where executive power is vested in a professionally trained city manager who is appointed by and serves at the pleasure of an elected city council. This system separates political decision-making from administrative functions, creating a clear distinction between policy formation and policy implementation.

In this structure, the elected city council acts as the legislative body, responsible for making policy decisions, setting budgets, and representing the interests of constituents. The mayor, when present, typically serves as the ceremonial head of the council with limited executive powers. The city manager serves as the chief executive officer, overseeing day-to-day operations, implementing council policies, and managing municipal departments and staff.

The council-manager system emerged in the early 20th century as a reform movement aimed at reducing political corruption and patronage in local government. It was designed to introduce professional management principles to municipal administration while maintaining democratic accountability through elected officials.

This form of government offers several advantages, including professional administration, political neutrality in implementation, and clear lines of responsibility. The city manager provides continuity of administration regardless of political changes and brings specialized expertise to complex municipal issues. Citizens benefit from having elected officials focused on policy while professional managers handle operational concerns.

The system also presents potential drawbacks, such as reduced direct political accountability since the city manager is not elected, and possible tensions between elected officials and appointed administrators. Critics argue that the separation of powers can sometimes lead to confusion about responsibility for governmental outcomes.

Today, the council-manager form is the most common municipal government structure in the United States, used by cities of various sizes across the country. Many counties and special districts have also adopted similar arrangements. The model has spread internationally, with variations adapted to different political and cultural contexts worldwide.