Which of the following is a primary form of local governance?

The council-manager form of local governance is a primary method used by municipalities to provide structured leadership and facilitate effective administration. In this system, an elected city council is responsible for the legislative functions of the municipality, including setting policies and making laws. The council then appoints a city manager to oversee the daily operations, implement policies, and manage city staff. This separation of powers allows for professional management while ensuring that elected officials retain control over the legislative aspects of governance.

This model is widely adopted due to its efficiency and effectiveness in urban management, enabling local governments to respond more adeptly to the needs of their communities. It promotes accountability since the city manager works under the council’s direction and can be evaluated based on performance in achieving the policies and goals set by the elected officials.

In contrast, other options such as citizens' committees, charter commissions, and advisory boards serve different roles within local governance. Citizens' committees typically have a more focused mandate, often dealing with specific issues or projects on a temporary basis rather than bearing the overarching responsibilities of governance. Charter commissions often function to propose changes or revisions to the municipal charter, rather than serve as a governing body. Advisory boards provide recommendations and guidance but do not have executive powers to implement policies or manage the municipality