City & Local

Governance

5 articles

A stark visual contrast between a well-functioning city with excellent public services and a neglected area suffering from poor service delivery, illustrating the gap in local government performance.
Services

What is Performance Measurement in Local Government Public Services?

Maluti-a-Phofung recorded a dismal 24.

Marco Alvarez·August 16, 2026
A somber, cinematic view of a county council building with empty streets, symbolizing the severe impact of budget cuts on local services.
Community

Local services face devastating impact from budget cuts in 2026.

By 2028, the county council and seven district councils in Norfolk, UK, will cease to exist, replaced by just three unitary authorities, a stark example of how budget pressures are reshaping local gov

Derek Molina·August 9, 2026
Diverse citizens actively participating in a town hall meeting, engaging with local government officials to influence decisions.
Local Guides

How to Influence Local Government Decisions

In Mogadishu, Somalia, a recent study of 446 residents revealed that public participation doesn't just give citizens a voice; it directly predicts their trust in local authorities.

Derek Molina·June 22, 2026
Diverse citizens engage in a modern city council meeting, symbolizing transparent governance and collaborative urban development.
Community

How City Council Structures and Engagement Work: A 2026 Guide

In 2024, Portland, Oregon, transitioned to a Mayor-Council structure, ending a 111-year run under a Commission system.

Derek Molina·May 10, 2026
Frustrated citizens in a city hall meeting room, their engagement seemingly ignored by a dismissive official, highlighting limited impact on policy.
Community

Citizen Engagement: Limited Impact on City Policy in 2026

Despite Riverside's community engagement process for the Cesar Chavez Community Center's name, no change proposal is on the table.

Derek Molina·May 2, 2026