HomeMy WebLinkAboutBozeman_City_Manager_Model_Presentation wide conversionCity Manager
Model: Key
Advantages
PRESENTATION TO
THE BOZEMAN
LOCAL
GOVERNMENT STUDY
COMMISSION
My Experience at the City
40 years working for 5 different CMs
It is the most accountable form of local government I know of
Power vs. Authority and Responsibility
Elected officials make the important policy decisions including the
budget
Commission hires the CM carry out the Commission’s policy
If the CM isn’t performing to the Commission’s expectations, they
can be replaced
Professional Management and
Expertise
Professional Management and Expertise
Reduced Political Influence in Daily Operations
Accountability Through Commission Oversight
Flexibility and Responsiveness
Focus on Long-Term Planning Over Short-Term Politics
Professional Management and
Expertise
City Manager Model: The City Commission appoints a
professionally trained administrator with expertise in public
administration, budgeting, and operations.
Advantage: Ensures decisions are made based on data, best
practices, and long-term planning rather than political
considerations.
Reduced Political Influence in Daily
Operations
City Manager Model: Separates politics from administration.
Elected officials set policy; the manager implements it using
resources approved by the City Commission.
Advantage: Promotes continuity, stability, and efficiency in city
services regardless of political changes.
Accountability Through Commission
Oversight
City Manager Model: The manager is accountable to the entire
city commission, not just one elected official.
Advantage: Encourages transparency and collaborative
governance, reducing the risk of unilateral decision-making.
Flexibility and Responsiveness
City Manager Model: Allows for quicker adaptation to challenges
through professional staff and streamlined operations.
Advantage: Bozeman can respond more nimbly to emergencies,
economic shifts, or community needs without waiting for political
cycles.
Focus on Long-Term Planning Over
Short-Term Politics
City Manager Model: Encourages strategic planning and
infrastructure investment without the pressure of re-election
campaigns.
Advantage: Supports sustainable growth and fiscal responsibility
over time.