We The People: Modern local government system originates in Staunton

STAUNTON, Va. (WHSV) - The city manager form of government is used all across the country, and its origins trace back to 20th century Staunton.

In a council-manager government, the elected body or council appoints an administrator who handles all of the bureaucracy of a city. Unlike the board or council members, the city manager is not elected by the people. However, they are the top official of unelected local government.

“I work to implement [the city council’s] vision. They’re the ones making the policy and I execute with strategic vision,” Leslie Beauregard, Staunton’s city manager said. “I also oversee all of the departments to make sure they are getting things done.”

Back in 1908, the city of Staunton codified a city manager into law, being the first locality to do so. The city manager’s job was to handle all administrative responsibilities, separating the politics from the administration. Before this, elected officials would be in charge of making policy and ensuring policy was enacted correctly. In a mayor-council system, the people elect the chief administrator. New York City is an example of a mayor-council system.

A key difference between the two is the council is the legislative body of government. In areas that did not have a city manager system, the elected legislator also enacted executive duties, removing potential conflicts of interests when chambers of government are intertwined.

Since Beauregard’s time in college, she said, all of her experience in public administration comes from local government.

“Honestly, it is the only type of work I’ve ever wanted to do,” Beauregard said.

Beauregard explained how fulfilling it is to her when she explains what she does. She said she finds herself talking about the history in Staunton and how honored she feels to be working where the city manager government first started.

Beauregard is the 17th city manager the city has seen, but she is the first woman to serve in the role. Beauregard credits her mentors from her college career and early professional life to help her get to where she is now. She said she hopes other women feel inspired to pursue these roles and help make it an equal opportunity for everyone.

“It is still male-dominated. I’m on several committees through my professional organization that focuses on women in these roles, encouraging women in these roles,” Beauregard said. “I think 15% of the chief administrative officers around the country are women.”

Beauregard said her favorite part of the job is working with the people across the government and she loves ensuring the government works for the people of Staunton.

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