A. The Council/Manager form of local government was the result of the "good Government" movement arising during the turn of the last century in urban centers around the nation. The Council/Manager form of government was a direct response to the political excesses of the old "spoils system" of government. The first City to adopt the Council/Manager form of government was Staunton, Virginia in 1917. It is now the most prevelant form of government in California.
Q. What is the role of the City Manager in this form?
A. Under the Council/Manager form of government, power is concentrated in the elected City Council, which hires a professional City Manager to implement its policies. That individual serves at the pleasure of the Council and has the responsibility for preparing the budget, directing day-to-day operations, hiring and firing personnel and serving as the City Council's chief policy advisor.
Q. How can I get to serve on a City Committee, Commission or Board?
A. If you desire to serve in the public interest, applications are available in the Administrative Offices at City Hall, the Library, the Chamber of Commerce, Joslyn Center, George E. Gordon Clubhouse, or, call 310-524-2302 and an application will be mailed to you.
