Local government is experiencing enormous change. The developing consequences of the modernisation agenda - political restructuring, community strategies, local strategic partnerships, public service agreements, ethical arrangements and best value etc - for the processes, structures, style and culture of individual councils have yet to emerge.
The purpose of this series of three discussion papers is to contribute to the current debate. Their starting position is the principles of good corporate governance, from which important questions are asked. The series explores the issues that must be determined in the selection of local solutions, without recommending any particular solution.
These papers are aimed at those in local government who have the responsibility for leading the modernisation process. In focusing on the need for a new local constitutional settlement, We Hold These Truths to Be Self-evident locates the modernisation agenda within recent local government history. This paper explores the implications of the impact of change on officers. Its companion - To Whom Much is Given - explores the impact on members.