***Updated 11/13/2024***

While most eyes were trained on the presidential election and national offices this election cycle, ICMA remained focused on local elections where residents turned out to determine the form of government they feel is best suited to meeting the needs of their communities. Thanks to the support of those who donated generously to the Future of Professional Management Fund, ICMA continues to travel to communities and support those who advocate for more effective, efficient, and equitable local government. On election day, ICMA won two of the four campaigns it was engaged with (50% success rate). 

Mattoon, Illinois – Voters approved a referendum to change from a commission to a council-manager form of government. ICMA and the Illinois City/County Management Association partnered to address the community and inform their knowledge and understanding of the two forms of government. 

Glencoe Village, Illinois – Voters adopted a home rule ordinance, which will allow them to strengthen their position as a well-managed council-manager city. 

Covington, Kentucky – Voters approved a referendum to change from council-manager to mayor-council form of government by a 61% to 39% margin. This effort was strongly supported and advanced by the elected body late into the election year, which reduced the opportunity to mount significant public opposition. 

Los Angeles County, California – The most populous county in the country initiated a referendum to make the county executive an elected position. Voters weighed in on the referendum that would also increase the number of members on the board of supervisors – a key factor to building support for the initiative. Voters appear to have narrowly approved the measure with 51% voting for and 49% voting against the measure though the vote will not be certified until December 3.

Need form-of-government assistance?

ICMA provides information, presentations, and other support to individuals and organizations interested in promoting professional management and the council-manager form of government. Contact Jason Grant at jgrant@icma.org. Learn more about donating to ICMA’s Future of Professional Management Fund.