This form of local governance combines the policy leadership of elected officials in a governing body, often called a council, with the professional expertise of a manager appointed by the council. The elected council determines the policies, while the appointed manager oversees the daily administrative operations of the local government, implementing those policies. For instance, a city council may decide to prioritize infrastructure improvements, and the appointed manager would then be responsible for overseeing the planning, budgeting, and execution of those projects.
This structure offers several benefits, including professional expertise in managing local affairs, political neutrality in administration, and accountability of the manager to the elected council. It also allows elected officials to focus on policy development and citizen representation rather than day-to-day management. Historically, this model arose as a reform movement aimed at reducing political corruption and improving efficiency in municipal government, particularly during the early 20th century.