Healthy communities and environments are what residents expect. And as the authors of the September PM article “Health Localized” write, “When thinking about local service delivery and public health on a global scale, the importance of governmental structure becomes quite evident.” The article describes how collaboration and shared services are fitting nicely into the increased prioritization of health-oriented local government services and resident quality of life.

Local governments around the world that have similar health concerns are emphasizing coordination to deliver services that can improve residents’ lives. The authors provide examples, including parks and recreation departments partnering with health departments and pediatricians to highlight the need for children to get more physical activity. “Complete streets” promotes such physical activity as networks for bicycles and sidewalks.

An ICMA report released during the summer of 2016, Improving Quality of Life: The Effect of Aligning Local Service Delivery and Public Health Goals, examines the role of local governments around the world in supporting public health.

September Public Management (PM) magazine