Tales From the Trenches: Achievements, Blunders and Challenges in Local Government Management

"Tales from the Trenches: Achievements, Blunders and Challenges in Local Government Management" grew from a desire to inform everyone about the wonderful world of local government management. Whether you are a public administration student, a newly appointed supervisor, a top executive, an elected official or an inquisitive citizen you’ll be captivated by the true stories that depict real life local government management challenges and dilemmas. Scattered throughout the stories are tips presented by a wise old owl who brags about his seventy years of local government experience. Whether you agree with the owl or not, you’ll be intrigued with the insights and challenges that local government managers face. You’ll also be fascinated by one of the world’s most fulfilling careers.

"Tales from the Trenches" consists of eleven chapters covering such topics as: Leadership and Management Style, Decision Making, Communications, Human Resources Management, Budgeting Skills, Citizen Advisory Boards, Community Relations, Relations with Elected Officials, Media Relations, Ethics, and Career Issues. All of the stories appearing in this book were contributed by sixty active and retired local government officials located in cities, counties, and special districts throughout the United States.

"Tales from the Trenches" contains a Glossary, Bibliography and Index. An Instructor’s Manual is also available from the Training Shoppe.