Taking information that local agencies already have and making it
open to the public reduces in-house costs and builds efficiencies
for both staff and constituents. In the past the public…
How does one sensitize the public agency’s workforce to the
special obligations of being a public agency staff member?
Strategies include discussing practical examples from the media
to help…
An online questionnaire gives communities an opportunity to gain
insights about candidates’ views on local control and other
issues of importance to cities statewide.
Local control, or home rule, provides the foundation for city
governance. This article examines the state’s history and the
Legislature’s tradition of meddling in local affairs.
The 311 Customer Service Center operates 24 hours a day, 365 days
a year to provide access to City and County of San Francisco
government information and services. The goal is to assist
callers…
Local governments use a wide variety of technology options in their efforts to connect with their communities. While some technology may be costly, many options are reasonably priced and the range…
Local governments can access free resources and borrow equipment,
including keypad polling devices and translation gear, to enhance
public meetings and engage the community.
The issues related to refraining from participation in an agency
decision can be vexing. It may be tempting to abstain because of
concerns about making an unpopular decision or simply not
knowing…
Innovation requires risk-taking — not wild gambles, but
calculated risks. Unless council members and top management
create an environment that encourages “smart” risks, there will
be little…
The municipal budget process typically begins in the spring. City
officials and staff can find a wide range of free materials
online to assist in budget creation, financial management and
more.
The issue of when to refrain from participating in an agency
decision can be vexing. This is an area where the law provides
some but not all of the answers.
