High Performance Government Governing Body and Staff in Partnership John Nalbandian University of Kansas

Objectives Discuss community building as purpose of government Identify attributes of high performance governing body Explore obstacles to high performance Steps to take to improve performance

Attributes of the High Performance Governing Body Addresses difficult policy problems Builds capacity to work effectively together Develops productive relationship with staff

Obstacles Conflicting values that drive policymaking Conditions that make public policymaking difficult Perspectives of elected officials and staff

Values RESPONSIVENESS = Representation + Efficiency/Professionalism + Social Equity + Individual Rights

Efficiency and Politics EfficiencyEfficiency High Low Representation Social Equity Individual Rights

Expectations and Contributions

Governing Body Working Conditions Vague Task Definition No Hierarchy No Specialization Little Feedback Open Meetings

Reduce uncertainty Know policymaking role Goals setting Problem solving techniques Develop norms of behavior Team building Partnership with staff

Characteristics of Politics and Administration

Passion and Facts Is There Passion? Is There a Need/Facts? YesNo Yes ActionReport on shelf No Danger

City Manager’s Role Translate politics and administration Align Staff priorities with governing body goals Governing body and staff expectations and contributions Passion and data

Steps to Take Identify value conflicts Depersonalize issues Establish vision; set goals Build team expectations Schedule council retreats Develop effective relationship with staff Understand political and administrative logic Develop translator role

Pledge Say what needs to be heard Act in ways that need to be seen Seek virtues that need to be sought