This article discusses three levels of relationships that exist between council members and managers; discusses the importance of a good working relationship between the two; and outlines common areas of unhappiness, such as lack of "chemistry" and personality clashes, disagreement with the role of the manager and other power conflicts, and jealousy and dissatisfaction with department heads...

This article advises local governments on franchise agreements with utilities. Topics it addresses include the need to update franchise agreements...

The city manager was nervous about a telephone call she had received from the local newspaper, asking if she would agree to meet with the editorial board for an interview.

The city manager wants to do everything he can to support a local school bond initiative that will appear on the ballot in the next election...