Since its initial adoption by 31 cities in 1914, professional local government management has grown to become the most popular form of government among communities with populations of 2,500 or more. Today, nearly three-quarters of cities, towns, and counties in the United States—in addition to a significant number of local governments around the globe—have established the position of professional manager. More than 150 million Americans—nearly half the U.S. population—live in communities with professional managers in place.

Since its initial adoption by 31 cities in 1914, professional local government management has grown to become the most popular form of government among communities with populations of 2,500 or more. Today, nearly three-quarters of cities, towns, and counties in the United States—in addition to a significant number of local governments around the globe—have established the position of professional manager. More than 150 million Americans—nearly half the U.S. population—live in communities with professional managers in place.

The legacy of success resulting from the professionalization of local government is well documented. Seventy-five percent of communities recognized with the National Civic League’s coveted All-America City Award between 2007 and 2013 are run by professional managers. A February 2011 study by IBM Global Business Services found that local governments that operate with a professional manager under the council-manager form of government are nearly 10 percent more efficient than those operating under the mayor-council form, a testament to the value that professional local government management brings to communities everywhere.

Welcome to the next century!

ICMA’s 100th anniversary is only the beginning! While this series of anniversary moments comes to a close with the December issue of PM, the many milestones in the history of ICMA, its members, and the professionalism of local government management live on. Visit icma.org/anniversary from time to time and scroll through the anniversary timeline, where periodic updates will be added to keep the celebration alive.