Brookings Banter

Yankton's Daily Press and Dakotan hosted an online poll asking "Would Yankton be better off switching to a Mayoral form of Government".  I'm guessing this question has roots in the current issues with the separation agreement reached by the Yankton Commission and the City Manager Jeffrey Weldon.  Last I checked over 60% said no.

I believe the city manager form of government is best for cities the size of Brookings and Yankton.  A city manager is an expert of public administration and management which a smaller city may not get if a Mayor is the top administrative official. 

As Yankton has found, the weakest component in this style of city government is the City Manager - Council - Community relationship.  In theory the governing body is to direct the CM with one voice.  Nice theory, but in reality each elected official has is own voice on issues not formally decided on by council action.  Even when the Council takes formal action to instruct the city manager, those who voted against the action could still press the city manager to do as they say.  Don't forget the community members, they know the city manager has a lot authority, and will let him or her know their feelings. Then along comes a majority of the governing body who disagree with everything you do and wants you to leave.  It's a tough job. 

Find the right city manager that can work with the community and has the trust of the governing body,  the city manager form of government flourishes and so does the city.