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Working with Staff

Overview

Working with Staff

An agency’s professional staff will be an important source of information for newly-elected officials. If your agency does not have an orientation for newly elected officials, make an appointment to get acquainted.

Some questions to ask include:

  • What issues does the agency executive see as most pressing?
  • What process does the agency use for developing and approving its budget? What are the key budgetary challenges?
  • What is the status of long-range plans and capital projects?
  • Are there other key staff members with whom the official should meet and be briefed by, based on their particular interests?

Other information on staff/elected issues appear below.

 

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Maximizing the Success of Board/Chief Executive Relations

Different local agencies use different names for the chief executive officer: city manager, city or county administrator, chief executive officer, and executive director are among a few.

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The Division of Roles Between Elected Officials and Staff

Elected officials collectively decide policy issues for the agency.  Staff is responsible for implementing that policy direction.

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What Do Staff Do?

Public agency staff play a number of roles. Some of these roles involve providing agency services and facilities; others involve presenting information and analysis to decision-makers.

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Elected Official Direction to Staff

This article explains the uniquely sensitive relationship that exists between elected officials and staff at public agencies. 

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When the Leadership of an Agency Changes

Elections can result in a change of the majority philosophy on a local governing body. 

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Understanding the Labor Negotiations Process
California's Collective Bargaining Process

When county or city employees are represented by a union, the agency must negotiate with that union regarding their pay and benefits, working hours, and working conditions.

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