“Managers are ready for the future and invest in their people,” observes Dr. Eric Zeemering, professor and MPA director at the University of Georgia.  Zeemering discusses council-manager government and why that structure works, with a focus on accountability, financial skills, and long-range planning in ICMA’s new video series, “Why it Works.”

As a former local selected official, he understands the challenges of local government from the viewpoint of the council table.

 ICMA's Future of Professional Management Fund is celebrating  its 40th Anniversary in 2026 and we are sharing stories about how the Fund supports professional management and the council-manager form.

You can find ICMA’s complete library of resources to support communities of all sizes that are seeking to retain or adopt the council manager for local governments Resources include the new video, Council-Manager Form of Government Works Best, with testimonials from elected officials, academics, and nonprofit leaders. 

Your support for the profession makes a difference. Whether you’re a regular or first-time donor, join the 40-40 campaign.

See more stories and look for more Fund-supported video drops as we approach the 2026 ICMA Annual Conference!

Dr. Zeemering is professor and MPA director at the University of Georgia, School of Public and International Affairs and co-editor of State and Local Government Review. His research, teaching, and public engagement help students, local elected officials and public managers understand collaboration, intergovernmental relations, and innovations in service delivery.