The Government of American Cities offers a clear path to self-governing, efficient urban government.
This non-fiction work analyzes why many American cities fail to govern well and how they can fix it. It argues that strong city government comes from applying basic democratic principles at the local level, with powers and responsibilities tailored to each city’s needs.
A practical guide for readers interested in urban policy, civic reform, and local administration. It contrasts successful models abroad with the American situation to show how self-government can be achieved in practice.
- Clear separation of political policy decisions from routine administrative duties
- The case for granting cities sufficient, locally focused powers within the state framework
- The merit principle to ensure honesty and efficiency in city offices
- Simple, centralized city government structures that concentrate responsibility
Ideal for students, policymakers, and readers seeking to understand how cities can become more responsive to their citizens.