Russell Arben Fox's insightful editorial on the dynamics of local governance in Kansas rightly underscores the pivotal role played by city managers in shaping our communities.
While his article delves into the complexities of the relationship between elected officials and appointed professionals, it is equally important to acknowledge the empowering nature of constitutional home-rule authority granted to Kansas citizens, the cornerstone of self-determination.
Home rule authority allows cities to choose the form of government that aligns with the community's specific needs and goals. This flexibility is instrumental in ensuring that local governments can effectively address the challenges they face while operating within the framework of our great state.
In Kansas, the council-manager system has predominantly been embraced, which, as Fox aptly points out, fosters pragmatic governance and guards against the polarization often observed in state and national politics.
City managers, as nonpartisan professionals, bring expertise and experience to the decision-making process, ensuring that choices are made based on sound judgment and technical knowledge rather than political agendas.
It is important to recognize that appointing city managers by elected officials creates a synergy between professional expertise and the community's values and priorities. Elected officials representing their constituents are well-suited to select city managers who share their vision for the community and possess the necessary skills to execute it effectively.
While city managers play a vital role in day-to-day decision-making, they are held accountable to the elected officials who appoint them. City managers serve at the pleasure of the governing body, and their performance is continually evaluated based on their ability to implement the council's decisions and achieve the community's goals.
The balance between elected officials and professionals in local government is crucial. Elected officials provide the vision and direction, while professional managers ensure those goals are translated into effective action. This collaborative approach allows for the best of both worlds: the democratic representation of citizens' interests and the expertise needed to navigate complex administrative tasks.
In summary, Fox's column serves as a valuable reminder of the critical role played by city managers and their staff in shaping our local communities. Home-rule authority empowers cities to choose a form of government - a council-manager system, a strong mayor system, or a hybrid model - that is effective and responsive to community values.
By striking a balance between elected officials and professional managers and fostering transparency and citizen engagement, Kansas cities can continue to thrive under strong leadership and professional expertise.
Jon Quinday, ICMA-CM
Russell City Manager