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Before taking office,
it is a good idea to read your city or village charter as one of
your
first
duties.
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Understand that the decisions you make will in many instances affect
not only your own community but surrounding communities and other governmental
units as well.
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There is a distinction between policy making and policy implementation.
Typically the elected officials make policy, while appointed officials
implement the policy.
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Elected officials should
be mindful that their decisions affect all the citizens of a community,
so those decisions must be for that
which is in
the best interest of all citizens.
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It is important to understand the limitations placed on the authority
of public officials. Authority for public officials comes from the
U.S. Constitution, the Michigan Constitution and local charter and
ordinances.
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The primary role of
public officials is to preserve, protect and enhance the public
health,
safety and welfare, and to build and fund the organization
to carry out this charge.
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If you are a candidate
for office it is a good idea to get to know the municipality, the
staff, the issues and the councilmembers and commissioners.
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It is important to know that our municipalities are governed by
the rule of law, not the rule of men and women.
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The misuse of public office for personal gain is a serious breach
of ethical conduct for public officials.
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Self-education is critical for public officials who want to keep
abreast of issues facing their municipalities.
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Top level management must first be committed to the goals of the
municipality if the staff are going to be committed to those goals.
