bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utrasonic Gas Leak Detection
Authors: Sizeland Eliot , Croft Andy , Leong Anthony
Published: February 2015

Introduction:

Ultrasonic technology has been around since early 1930's. For many years, detecting combustible gas leaks has been accomplished through the use of catalytic bead and infrared point detectors along with open path infrared perimeter detectors In past 20 years, ultrasonic sensing has become the leading standard in many different industries, including gas measurement for custody transfer and, of course, leak detection.

Advantages to using ultrasonic leak detectors:

ƒ. It Detects gas leak before a hazardous concentration is present ƒ. Suitable for all weather conditions ƒ. The gas cloud no contact with the sensor during Operation. ƒ. Detection is instantaneous for all types of gas leak (toxic or combustible) ƒ. Not affected by wind direction and noisy environments (audible noise is not an issue) ƒ. Wide area coverage with a single unit (up to 40 meter radius) PMS - Uncoated

Challenges

ƒ. Not suited for low pressure application (below 30 psi). ƒ. Cannot distinguish gas types leaking, e.g. air/nitrogen/methane ƒ. Time delays need pre configured for press releases, etc

There are only two types of ultrasonic leak detectors on the market today. The first utilizes traditional ultrasonic sensing technology through the use of a moving metal diaphragm (microphone) that requires frequent calibration and periodic replacement. Because of its design, mounting orientation is also limited and it can be affected by temperature changes. This unit also has a single sensor element that covers a max range of a 12 meter radius with medium background noise

The latest ultrasonic sensing technologies uses a resonant sensor. The active element is a piezo-electric material(which converts mechanical deformation into electrical voltage) embedded in a ceramic medium. These sensors have an extremely high chemical resistance and a wide frequency range response band. The unit can be mounted in any orientation required for the application. Its sensor design has no moving parts so wear and tear is completely eliminated. Detector design come with four sensors, which covers a max range of 40 meters radius. After Factory Calibration, It will be Lifetime usage and there is no zeroing or calibration required.

No Maintenance required.
Influence of Local Effects on Fatigue Assessments during Hold Periods of Offshore Pipeline Installation by Reeling
Authors: Bedrossian Arek , Brett Paul
Published: February 2015

There are many situations during offshore installation of pipelines in which the pipe is held clamped for extended periods on the lay vessel. In the case of installation by reeling this is done at the hang off clamp (HOC) below the workstation of the reel-lay vessel. The increased fatigue damage in the pipe over the duration of the hold period, especially at or just below the HOC, then has to be evaluated and included in the overall fatigue assessment. The behaviour of pipelines during offshore installation under various anticipated sea states have long been routinely predicted using established and mostly purpose-written numerical methods. In these assessments the time histories of vessel movement and wave and current action on the immersed pipe are used as input and the dynamic response of the pipeline is evaluated. The higher local fatigue damage at the girth weld nearest the clamp is then evaluated by using a stress concentration factor (SCF) applied to the predicted stress ranges at that location to take into account the local fixity. In most simulations, however, the SCF is assigned an unnecessarily high value based on full fixity at the clamp which usually results in the predicted fatigue damage being significantly higher than that at the sagbend. The allowable hold period for a given sea state could then be governed by the SCF. In reality, many different factors would be at play at the HOC which reduce the magnitude of an SCF based on full fixity. The more important of these factors are the local frictional slip between pipe outer surface and the pads, the thickness dependent higher compliance of outer thermal insulation coating material that may be on the pipe, and the local flexibilities of the HOC housing assembly on the vessel. This paper provides a discussion and semi-numerical evaluation of the effects of some of these factors on the SCF and consequent assessment of fatigue damage.
Welding Residual Stress and Pipeline Integrity
Authors: Tornqvist R. , Wang J. , Tronskar J.P. , Sisan A.
Published: February 2015

Understanding welding-induced residual stresses can help the pipeline industry to produce and install safer, more reliable and potentially more cost-efficient pipeline designs. The weld residual stresses are often found to be in the tensile stress state in parts of the weld which is well-known to have a destructive effect on the fatigue life and fracture properties of the pipeline. With the latest development within Computational Welding Mechanics, it is today it is possible to give accurate estimations of the residual stresses and distortions due to welding and the results can be used to optimise and determine the structural life time of the pipeline. However, it is vital that the welding simulation methods are validated against reliable measured data, so that welding-induced residual stresses distribution can be accurately predicted using computational methods. During the welding there are several factors that might affect the influence of welding residual stresses, such as the materials properties of the base and filler material, the welding process parameters, number of passes, joint groove parameters, geometry effects such as the thickness and t/D ratio. The different factors contribute all to the weld residual stress in different levels and it is therefore crucial to understand how this will influence residual stress level.

This paper presents a review of the latest achievements within Computational Welding Mechanics (CWM) simulations to determine the weld residual stresses in pipeline girth welds and the influence the weld residual stress has on the pipeline integrity.
Optimising Energy Footprint for Offshore CO2 Separation and Transportation (or CCS)
Authors: Mohd Noh M.G. , Hor W.V. , Jalani M.Y.J. , Mas'od M.A.
Published: February 2015

This paper presents the overview of the feasibility studies on the possible optimization of energy footprint for the development of high CO2 fields. The development cycle will involve the production of well stream with high CO2, separating the gases and transporting the CO2 via a pipeline to a suitable sequestration site. The entire CCS cycle will require substantial usage of energy. The separation is the biggest sector for energy utilization, the source of which is usually came from the associated gas and the recycled fuel gas for the oil and gas field, respectively. To ensure the economics of developing a high CO2 field, the utilized energy to separate, transport and sequester CO2 needs to be optimized. Energy optimization can be achieved through a series of strategy such as the integration of low BTU gas turbine driver, liquid or supercritical centrifugal CO2 pump or the use of the industry proven CO2 compressors. Over or under specifications of turbo-machinery equipment could hinder the energy foot print optimization. The out-of-specs equipment selection can be from the result of erroneous estimation of pipeline pressure drop due to an inadequate simulation tool capability when predicting the fluids transport behavior. This paper identifies the technology gaps in a commercial pipeline simulation package in an attempt to reduce this uncertainty. In addition, a comparative energy footprint based on simulation and vendor specification through the implementation of various equipment schemes and compression strategy from various CO2 separation technologies are reviewed and discussed. The paper also discusses the qualification requirements for some of the turbo-machinery equipment proposed, highlighting the technology risks and gaps should a particular technology is selected and deployed to achieve the desired energy footprint during field operation.
Local level service delivery, decentralisation and governance: A comparative study of Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania
Authors: Tidemand Per
Published: February 2015

This paper summarises key findings from a comprehensive analysis commissioned by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) of the nature of decentralisation in the three East African countries: Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.The specific objectives of the study were:• Provide a basic comparative analysis of the forms and processes of decentralisation reforms in the three countries• Analyse the specific modalities in the three countries for local service delivery planning and provision within the three sectors of basic education, primary health care and agricultural extension, with a particular emphasis on rural areas. TIDEMAND: Local level service delivery, decentralisation and governance: A comparative study of Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania CJLG May 2009 145• Explore the impact of the specific forms of decentralisation and local level service delivery arrangements in terms of efficiency, accountability (transparency) and democratic process (participation).
Yes to Local Government, No to Participatory Democracy: The Local Governance Reform Dilemma in Trinidad, St. Lucia and St. Vincent
Authors: Ragoonath Bishnu
Published: February 2015

In the Commonwealth Caribbean countries of St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago, local government reform has been and continues to remain on the agenda. The proposals are all based on the philosophy that there should be elected local government, which in turn should facilitate substantive levels of participatory democracy and citizen involvement. But whilst there is general acceptance of this philosophy, central governments are seemingly reluctant to implement any reforms which would return power to the people. Citizen involvement and participatory democracy has thus become the bug-bear in the process, and has led to the stalling of local government reform in all three countries. With reforms having stalled, one wonders whether the next step will be the dissolution of systems of local government in these states.
Governance at the Local Level in Melanesia – Absent the State
Authors: Hegarty David
Published: February 2015

At independence the three Melanesian states of the Pacific Islands region – Papua New Guinea (1975), Solomon Islands (1978) and Vanuatu (1980) – opted for decentralised systems of government. In all cases a three-tier system of national, provincial and local government was introduced, although the specific arrangements and allocation of powers differed substantially. Since that time there has been a good deal of analysis about the policy processes of decentralisation itself and about the effectiveness (or otherwise) of national-level governance in these countries; but until recently little has been written about the lower levels.This short article surveys some of the recent research and commentary on local-level governance relating particularly to Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Solomon Islands. It focuses on both the poor condition of formal local-level government as well as on the rise of informal governance-type activity at the local level which might be described as ‘civil society in formation’.
Implementing the Aberdeen Agenda in South Asia: A regional training program for elected members
Authors: Slack Lucy
Published: February 2015

In 2005 CLGF members adopted the Aberdeen Agenda: Commonwealth Principles on Good Practice for Local Democracy and Good Governance. The twelve Principles were developed at the CLGF’s biennial conference in March 2005 and were subsequently forwarded to Commonwealth Heads of Government, who also adopted them as part of their commitment to fundamental political values when they met the following November. Since then members of CLGF have used them in a variety of different ways – to support their own policy making, to enhance their lobbying and advocacy work, and in some cases, notably in Pakistan and Uganda (see CJLG Issue 2), to undertake a selfassessment of the health of their systems of local democracy and governance.
Can International Local Government Partnerships Make a Difference? Lessons from the Australia – Papua New Guinea Good Practice Scheme
Authors: Storey Donovan
Published: February 2015

This article explores the contribution that local government to local government partnerships can make in bringing about more effective and sustained decentralisation through developing the capacity of local governments to deliver improved services to the communities they serve. After almost 15 years of decentralization many of Papua New Guinea’s local governments struggle to maintain essential functions. Building on existing relationships, the Commonwealth Local Government Good Practice Scheme seeks to utilize the resources and knowledge of Australian local councils in partnership with those in Papua New Guinea to build capacity and improve the management and delivery of services to communities. This article examines the program to date, outlining both the successes and failures, but also the potential role such partnerships can play in the deepening of democratic governance at the local level.
Editorial - Issue 3
Authors: Sansom Graham
Published: February 2015

Editorial by Graham Sansom.
Complete Issue: No.3 May 2009 (1.4MB)
Authors: Grafton Daniel
Published: February 2015

Complete issue of No. 3 May 2009 (1.4MB).
Editorial
Authors: Brown Alison
Published: February 2015

The authors in this issue highlight crucial issues facing Commonwealth local governments today − ensuring national influence, maximising revenue generation, encouraging probity in staffing appointments, or dealing with problems of social exclusion and alcoholism, are some of the varied challenges faced by local administrations.
A Hard Road: Driving Local Action against Alcohol Related Problems in a Rural Town
Authors: Allan Julaine , Bowtells Lynda , Zeb Jehan
Published: February 2015

Context is important in developing strategies to address alcohol related violence. Knowledge of local conditions is critical to action in rural areas. The aim of this study was to gather information about context specific alcohol related problems experienced by frontline workers in a regional centre to inform the local alcohol action plan. Frontline workers were invited to participate in one of five focus group discussions that investigated problems experienced as a result of other people’s alcohol use. Alcohol related problems were more frequently associated with time periods than any single group in the community. Social media was used to incite arguments between groups in different venues during the lock-out periods. The focus groups identified that the location of licensed premises and a taxi rank; and previous relationships between protagonists were the key contextual factors causing alcohol related problems. A second taxi rank was identified as a useful local management strategy. Supply reduction was suggested as a key factor in long term solutions to alcohol related problems in rural towns. The local liquor accord did not want to reduce supply of alcohol by closing late night venues earlier. Local action to reduce alcohol related problems will be limited to pragmatic solutions because supply reduction is unacceptable to those in the business of selling alcohol.
Complete Issue (1.76MB)
Authors: Brown Alison
Published: February 2015

Complete Issue 11 December 2012 (1.76MB).
Decentralisation in developing countries: preconditions for successful implementation
Authors: Olum Yasin
Published: February 2015

Decentralisation has been implemented and is being implemented in many developing countries without much success. Although several unique factors inhibit the implementation of decentralisation in individual countries, the paper argues that there are six pre-conditions that these countries should fulfill before decentralisation can be successfully implemented. These preconditions are: institutional mechanisms; creation of spaces for participation; political will and civil will; capacity development at the local level; careful implementation; and democratic governance.
The local library across the digital and physical city: Opportunities for economic development
Authors: Houghton Kirralie , Foth Marcus , Miller Evonne
Published: February 2015

This paper considers the role of the public library as a community hub, engagement space, and entrepreneurial incubator in the context of the city, city governance, and local government planning. It considers this role from the perspective of library experts and their future visions for libraries in a networked knowledge economy. Public libraries (often operated by or on behalf of local governments) potentially play a pivotal role for local governments in positioning communities within the global digital network. Fourteen qualitative interviews with library experts informed the study which investigates how the relationship between digital technology and the physical library space can potentially support the community to develop innovative, collaborative environments for transitioning to a digital future. The study found that libraries can capitalise on their position as community hubs for two purposes: first, to build vibrant community networks and forge economic links across urban localities; and second, to cross the digital divide and act as places of innovation and lifelong learning. Libraries provide a specific combination of community and technology spaces and have significant tangible connection points in the digital age. The paper further discusses the potential benefits for libraries in using ICT networks and infrastructure, such as the National Broadband Network in Australia. These networks could facilitate greater use of library assets and community knowledge, which, in turn, could assist knowledge economies and regional prosperity.
The state of HIV sector local governance in Malawi and Zambia: Evidence from five districts
Authors: Steyn Justin
Published: February 2015

This paper encapsulates the outputs of a Swiss Agency for Development Cooperation (SDC) funded project that aimed to improve the levels of HIV governance at the district level in Malawi and Zambia by encouraging public participation in an effort to more effective use of local resources. The methodology for this project, developed by the Institute for Democracy in Africa (Idasa) and SDC, included a barometer which assessed perceptions of district HIV governance among key stakeholders. Perceptions were gathered on governance principles of effectiveness, efficiency, rule of law, accountability, participation and equity. The stakeholders ranged from administrators, political representatives, community-based organisations and the private sector on the supply side and citizens on the demand or beneficiary side. The findings of the research indicate specific sector governance issues that may be generalised to governance. Communication and transparency appear to be major issues underpinning the bottlenecks and shortcomings in the HIV sector governance at the district level. Information gaps have given rise to accountability deficits and coordination deficiencies. Addressing these matters would make more effective use of resources and lessen dependence on external funding sources.
Going somewhere slowly? An assessment of the pace of local government HIV/AIDs multisectoral responses in African cities
Authors: Kintu Francis
Published: February 2015

Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries have the highest rates of HIV prevalence in the world accounting for an estimated 71% of all new infections (UNAIDS 2010). HIV prevalence is greatest in urban informal areas, caused largely by the proliferation of a variety of risk environments that facilitate the rapid spread of HIV/AIDS. As a strategic response to the complex nature of the HIV/AIDs epidemic in urban areas, decentralised multisectoral HIV/AIDs responses at the local government level have been adopted. These are seen as a sustainable way of dealing with the spread of HIV/AIDs in a number of African cities, in line with internationally accepted recommendations. Now that a number of local governments in African cities have adopted HIV/AIDS multisectoral responses, the question can be asked to what degree is this is this response being implemented in these countries, and what challenges are faced by cities as they adopt this approach? This article reviews HIV/AIDS multisectoral responses in African cities, and discusses the challenges that face urban local governments as they implement these responses.
Basic Services for All in an Urbanizing World: GOLD III
Authors: Frost Claire
Published: February 2015

Basic Services for All in an Urbanizing World is the third instalment in United Cities and Local Government’s (UCLG) flagship series of global reports on local democracy and decentralisation (GOLD III). In the context of rapid urbanisation, climate change and economic uncertainty the report is an impressive attempt to analyse local government’s role in the provision of basic services, the challenges they are facing, and make recommendations to improve local government’s ability to ensure access for all. Published in 2014, the report is well positioned to feed into the current debate on what will follow the UN Millennium Development Goals, and examines the role of local government in the provision of basic services across the world regions.
Full Issue
Authors: Authors Issue Fifteen
Published: February 2015

Complete Issue 13/14 download.
Rural Municipal Development and Reform in Canada: Policy Learning through Local - Provincial Collaboration
Authors: Martin John , Paget Gary , Walisser Brian
Published: February 2015

In a federated country like Canada, diversity challenges universal policy prescriptions for local governments. The success of its provincial governments, which have exclusive jurisdiction for systems of local government, depends on balancing the need to act comprehensively and systematically while dealing thoughtfully with the unique situation of individual local governments. Canada’s provinces are shifting their approach to strengthening rural governance – shifting away from more directive interventions and now seeking to facilitate capacity-building in a manner that is less state-centred, more bottom-up, and better adapted to variable local circumstances. A dialogue was organised to focus on this shift in provincial practice. It brought together more than 50 savvy and influential policy practitioners representing all provinces and most local government associations at the provincial level. Practice recommendations emerged for provinces, local government associations, and local governments focusing on concrete actions and tools but also on the potential for redefining the roles played by, and relations between, the associations and provincial governments.
Women in Charge: Politics in a Women Majority Local Council in Australia
Authors: Bjørnå Hilde
Published: February 2015

The article is based on a study of a local council in Australia where women representatives hold a majority of the seats. How do these representatives understand their role in this context? What is their preferred style of doing politics, and what can explain their political aims and behaviour? What we find is that these women representatives are oriented toward green politics and prefer deliberative decision-making. This case study of a local council in Queensland suggests that the political objectives and style of women representatives largely reflect the specific local context, the electoral system and the political composition of the council, and not just the fact that women hold more than 70% of the seats. However, women representatives do feel that “numbers matter” for their ability to be acting out “who they are” in politics.
SEA: Comparing Open Perspectives on Planning Sustainability in Sardinia (Italy) and Torbay (Devon,UK)
Authors: Zoppi Corrado
Published: February 2015

If Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) to be effective and fulfil in the spirit of its governing EU Directive 2001/42/EC, cooperative and inclusive attitudes are essential. Cooperation should involve institutions, planning authorities and agencies which are involved in environmental assessment procedures. Inclusion implies favouring and catalysing local communities’ participation, that is participation of the public, in the planning/ assessment process.This paper discusses crucial aspects of SEA through a comparison of two case studies: the SEA of the Torbay Local Transport Plan 2006-2011 (LTPT) published by Torbay Council, and the Masterplan of the Port of the City of Cagliari, 2010 (MPPC) published by the Autorità Portuale di Cagliari in Sardinia, Italy, to provide evidence and lessons of good practice for both the UK and Italy. These include the assessment of:i. the endogeneity of the SEA process’ with respect to the planning process;ii. the sustainability and participation approaches;iii. the way available alternative planning options are compared;iv. the definition of the monitoring process.
Review of the Commonwealth Local Government Good Practice Scheme
Authors: Duchnowski Rachael
Published: February 2015

The overarching objective of the Commonwealth Local Government Good Practice Scheme (GPS) was to contribute towards the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals at the local level; there were four expected outputs:1. Increased capacity of local authorities to plan and deliver services, through successful implementation of CLGF-funded projects focussed on the following nationally agreed themes, relevant to the achievement of the MDGs;2. Measurable and/or assessable improvements in individual and/or departmental/local authority management efficiency and effectiveness delivered through the GPS projects;3. National local government associations possess effective knowledge management systems and dissemination networks working nationally - and internationally through CLGF;4. Utilisation of expertise of local government practitioners in partner countries to improve local government performance more widely.
A Cyclist’s Eye View of Rural Sustainability and Governance in Canada
Authors: Martin John
Published: February 2015

The study aims to discover and research what Canadian and Australian rural communities have in common. In both countries, rural communities are located in federations similar in structure and function, with provinces/states having considerable authority over these places. Governments are often challenged to provide equitable services to all places, especially in rural communities. Yet these communities continue to survive often facing the most challenging demographic, economic and environmental circumstances. In this comparative research, John and Alistair will ask what it is about these places, people and institutions that sustain them over time addressing the key issue of how their past, current economic fortunes, social networks and public institutions work together to ensure their sustainability.
Editorial
Authors: Brown Alison
Published: February 2015

The CLGF Research Colloquium, generously hosted by the Uganda Management Institute in Kamapala in May 2013, produced many outstanding papers, several of which are published in this issue. Our thanks to many of the staff and students of UMI, and to Lucy Slack and Gareth Wall from CLGF, who made the colloquium such a success.
Full Issue
Authors: Tan Su Fei
Published: February 2015

Complete Issue 13/14.
Local Governance Reforms in Zambia: A Review
Authors: Chikulo Bornwell C
Published: February 2015

This paper provides an overview of the efforts of successive Zambian governments to transform and institutionalise democratic local governance, and to come to grips with the socio-economic development challenges facing the country. It assesses the progress and challenges that governments are facing in their efforts to transform local government into democratic, developmental local governance.
BOOK REVIEW: Foundations for Local Governance: Decentralization in Comparative Perspective (edited by Fumihaiko Saito)
Authors: Smith Randal
Published: February 2015

This is a rich collection of case studies and will be valuable to anyone seeking a wide range of examples of local governance and decentralisation in developing countries. It covers Indonesia, India (Kerala and Karnataka), Sri Lanka, Uganda, South Africa and Ghana. With the exception of Sri Lanka, all the countries have two chapters devoted to them by different authors, thus providing a broader perspective on both the context of decentralisation and research findings.
Democratic Decentralization and Empowerment of Local Government Associations in Kerala
Authors: Ramakantan N
Published: February 2015

During the past decade the Indian state of Kerala has been successfully carrying out democratic decentralization, and has substantially transformed the functions of local governments in line with the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts, which institutionalised the local government system in India. In particular, formulation and implementation of micro plans with community participation has produced remarkable changes in the dynamics of local development and in the public management of local governments. This initiative for participatory planning at the local level taken by the government of Kerala enormously empowered local communities and the different actors in the local political system.
Bridging the Gap between Theory and Practice: Reviewing the functions and powers of local government in South Africa
Authors: Christmas Annette , De Visser Jaap
Published: February 2015

The chairperson of the parliamentary Portfolio Committee on local government recently described local government in South Africa as “a chicken whose legs have been tied for too long”. In other words, even when the fetters that bind the chicken’s legs are loosed, it remains at a loss for what to do with its newfound freedom (Tsenoli 2007). This descriptive analogy ostensibly refers to the failure of local government to harness its newfound power in post-apartheid South Africa and to claim its rightful position as the driver of development at the local level, and instigator of bottom-up growth and progress, which is meant to shape and transform society in the new South Africa.
Education and Research via the Open University Malaysia (OUM) – An Opportunity for Local Government
Authors: Phang Siew Nooi , Loo Sze Wei
Published: February 2015

In this era, the provision of education and dissemination of research-based knowledge need not be restricted to conventional methods such as classroom settings and face-to-face interactions. Advancements in communications via improved technologies enable people from all over the world to seek knowledge to support their needs, conduct global research via teleconferencing, and study at their own pace wherever they are and according to their level of ability. Naturally governments, too, are aware of this flexibility to increase their effectiveness and improve the capacity of their staff.
Attaining Sustainable Rural Infrastructure through the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme in India
Authors: Datta Polly
Published: February 2015

The enactment of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) 2005, with its rights-based approach through a time-bound employment guarantee and legal framework, has marked a paradigm shift not only from other wage-employment programmes hitherto pursued in India, but also from neo-liberal reforms undertaken since 1991. The Act came into force on 2 February 2006 and was implemented in a phased manner. In Phase I it was introduced in 200 of the most backward districts of the country; Phase II added another 130 districts in 2007-08; and in Phase III the scheme was further extended to the remaining 274 rural districts of India from 1 April 2008.
A local government authority leading action research: Impacts and replicability
Authors: Gunetilleke Neranjana
Published: February 2015

The paper explores whether the institutional model of the IDRC Colombo Focus City Project has had an impact on overcoming challenges associated with research based learning designed to influence policy and implementation processes of local government. Through an outline of the conduct of the Colombo Focus City action research project, initiated and led by the Colombo Municipal Council, a model and strategies are presented that can provide insight into how action research might influence policy and practice at the local level. The model studied is one where the policy makers - or more accurately, policy advisors and interpreters - lead the research team and are part of the implementation stages and learning processes. The paper considers the nature of the particular LGA studied in influencing the possibility for policy change. Finally, the article draws out elements that can be considered critical in replication of this model of research influencing policy
Conference Notes
Authors: Grafton Daniel
Published: February 2015

The following material is a selection of edited presentations and additional text from the Conference Working Group program. Further details about this program, including additional presentations, can be viewed at the CLGF conference website: www.clgc2009.org
Complete Issue: No.5 March 2010 (2MB)
Authors: Grafton Daniel
Published: February 2015

Complete issue of No. 5 March 2010 issue (2MB).
Online citizen panels as an advance in research and consultation – A Review of pilot results
Authors: Sharp Anne , Anderson Katherine
Published: February 2015

This paper details a new model for local government consultation and research. The model involves a local government partnering with a university to establish an online panel of citizens that is then used for consultations and research on a range of local government issues over time. The model was evaluated across an 18-month pilot involving three metropolitan councils in South Australia, each running its own panel. This paper details the rationale behind the panels, steps involved in their establishment, and what the most effective recruitment methods were to build panel membership. The model’s ability to recruit a wide audience of citizens as members, including those who would not normally participate in local government matters, is examined, as well as citizen expectations of the panel and satisfaction with being a member. Finally, key learnings from the pilot are identified. The pilot results demonstrate that such an online panel model can be used effectively in the local government context. The panels achieved citizen membership wider than that historically seen in local government consultation and research, and were sustainable in terms of continued participation and high levels of citizen satisfaction. Since the pilot, the project has grown to include seven councils and almost 2500 citizens. This is further evidence that this model offers a way forward for enhanced citizen participation in local government decision-making and policy development.
Enhancing aid effectiveness: The Case for stronger local government involvement in development
Authors: Canadian Municipalities Federation of
Published: February 2015

In 2008-2009, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and the Capacity and Institution Building Working Group (CIB) of United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) led the development of a UCLG Position Paper on Aid Effectiveness and Local Government. The position paper was adopted unanimously by UCLG World Council members at their annual meeting in Guanghzou, China in November 2009. It seeks to give voice to the local government perspective in the continuing deliberations on aid effectiveness. The paper also provides specific policy recommendations for the international donor community, national governments and local governments themselves geared towards better incorporating local governments into the design and delivery of development programs and processes.
Attitudinal orientation of first level managers for improvement of municipal service delivery: Experience of training intervention in Kolkata
Authors: Roy Uttam Kumar , Ghosh Arabinda , Chakravarti Ranjan Kumar , Som Nisitendra Nath
Published: February 2015

This paper discusses a program of attitudinal orientation courses provided for functionaries of a large municipal corporation in India. Almost 450 Assistant Managers from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation took part in the training, which was held at the Administrative Training Institute (ATI) of the Government of West Bengal, India.Under the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, Indian Municipalities/Corporations (Urban Local Bodies) are empowered and entrusted to perform planning, development and governance for the city/ town and to provide services to the citizens. The change in outlook towards the local government reflected in the Act has highlighted the need for greater awareness and a better attitude amongst municipal staff as well as elected representatives towards service delivery. Good governance can be achieved through the overall performance of officials of an organization, provided they possess the necessary knowledge, skills, attitudes and competencies. For historical reasons, knowledge, skills and attitudes amongst officials of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in India have been traditionally of a low standard. Willingness to perform better in the role of municipal service delivery is not common. Therein lies the need for training for improvement in service delivery, especially for organizations like large municipal corporations and municipalities.
On The Study Of Federal Capitals: A Review Article
Authors: Wettenhall Roger
Published: February 2015

It is fitting that Canada, as one of the world's leading federations, should play host to important ventures in the study of federal capitals, and in the analysis of how these capitals are governed and financed. A generation ago it was Canadian professor of political science Donald Rowat who produced the first anthology of these capitals. His edited book, with 17 case studies contributed by leading scholars of the time, provided excellent coverage of its subject and has remained the major text in the field for over 30 years. But there have been important developments in the field since Rowat's book was published by University of Toronto Press (Rowat 1973), and we can be thankful that another Canada-based team has produced a sequel volume that brings the story up-to-date and extends it in significant ways (Slack & Chattopadhyay 2009).
Local government and good governance: The case of Samoa
Authors: Amosa Desmond Uelese
Published: February 2015

Samoa is one of the many small developing countries that are now joining the international call to strengthen local government in a global effort to advance this institution as a recognized force for positive development, especially with respect to the achievement of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Part of the process includes the introduction of good governance practices through capacity building in order for local government to become proficient in managing resources and to be efficient and effective in service delivery. Accountability and transparency are central to the capacity building process. This paper finds that these central principles of good governance are neither novel nor foreign to the cultural and social practices of local government in Samoa. Hence, it is argued that any attempt to build the capacity of local government in Samoa should involve enhancing and embracing those established cultural measures that underpin accountability and transparency
Institutional policy learning and formal federal-urban engagement in Canada
Authors: Spicer Zachary
Published: February 2015

Canada has experienced two formal federal ministries dedicated to addressing urban issues. The first, the Ministry of State for Urban Affairs, encountered resistance from provincial governments and its fellow departments. Both worked to undermine it. The second, the Ministry of State for Infrastructure and Communities, was created with a more conciliatory tone towards the provincial governments and its ministerial colleagues. This paper examines the establishment of both ministries and tracks their efforts using a policy learning and lesson-drawing framework, concluding that common institutional actors, such as the Privy Council, were responsible for the Ministry of State for Infrastructure and Communities’ change in tone and approach to multilevel governance. General lessons are drawn about inter-governmental relations and multi-level policy formation in federal systems.
From development authorities to democratic institutions: Studies in planning and management transition in the Karachi Metropolitan Region
Authors: Ahmed Noman
Published: February 2015

Karachi is a relatively young metropolis. The city is about three centuries old, founded as a port by local Hindu merchants and traders. The British conquered the city in 1839, occupied the entire principality of Sindh in 1843 and designated Karachi as headquarters of the territory. The city experienced different phases of growth. When Pakistan came into being in 1947, a large number of refugees entered the city and the population jumped from 435,000 in 1947 to 1,050,000 in 1951. Karachi has remained the primate city of Pakistan, with a high annual growth rate of 5-7 percent per annum (Ahmed 1998). Current estimates suggest that the city has about 17 million inhabitants.Karachi houses 7 per cent of the total population and 23 per cent of the urban population of Pakistan. Its current rate of growth is estimated at around 5 per cent, of which 3 per cent is due to natural increase and 2 per cent to migration from the other parts of the country. Karachi provides 25 per cent of federal revenue and 15 per cent of Pakistan’s gross domestic product (GDP). In addition, 50 per cent of the country’s bank deposits and 72 per cent of all issued capital is contributed by the city (Hasan 2010; CDGK 2008). It houses the country’s largest stock market and about 26 per cent of the total national industrial establishments.
Role of local government in Botswana for effective service delivery: Challenges, prospects and lessons
Authors: Sharma Keshav C.
Published: February 2015

This paper begins with an explanation of the nature of local government in Botswana, its structures, and their functions and accomplishments since independence. It then proceeds to look at the challenges, and considers measures for meeting them. It ends by looking at future prospects and draws some lessons.
Mainstreaming HIV/AIDS in Gauteng urban municipalities: A bridge too far?
Authors: Kintu Francis
Published: February 2015

Local government in South Africa, or ‘developmental local government’ as the lowest tier of government is often called (RSA 1998), carries the mandate of executing national development priorities of the country, as empowered by the constitution (RSA 1996), and by local government policy and legislation such as the White Paper on Local Government (RSA 1998) and the Municipal Systems Act (RSA 2000), that spell out the roles and responsibilities of local government. In terms of this mandate, local government is categorized into metropolitan, district and local municipalities, and has the responsibility of providing basic services such as water and sanitation, housing, and roads within those municipal jurisdictions, based on local integrated development plans (IDPs).
Project Hetura: Reflections on an International Local Government Partnership
Authors: Gheller Susan
Published: February 2015

The objective of this paper is to provide an overview of the Townsville/Port Moresby partnership activities and explore the challenges and benefits to both Councils from the perspective of a Townsville City Council employee associated with the program.Since 2002, Townsville City Council has been engaged in a capacity building project with the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The project, named Hetura, means mateship or friendship in Moto, the predominant language group in Port Moresby. Project Hetura is coordinated through the Commonwealth Local Government Forum’ (CLGF) Good Practice Scheme with funding from AusAID. Townsville City Council provides in-kind support through the contribution of staff time and participation while the National Capital District Commission provides a budget allocation for the project.The overarching goal of Project Hetura is to strengthen management, planning, and governance within the NCDC and to improve the capacity of the organisation to deliver efficient, responsive, accountable services to the community. Rather than engaging in a traditional consultancy, the approach by participants of Project Hetura has been that of a partnership built through a relationship of trust and good-will developed over time between the two organisations. Within this partnership, the skills and contributions of all parties are valued, and team members work together to develop sustainable solutions to identified problems.
Editorial: Sustainable Democracy, Development and Environmental Policies
Authors: Martin Steve , Brown Alison
Published: February 2015

Urbanisation, climate change, footloose economies, multi-culturality and resource constraints pose unprecedented challenges for local governments today. In the developing world the gulf between needs and finance remains acute. Many western countries forced to reduce public spending in the wake of the sovereign debt crisis, are struggling to reconcile the need for efficiency savings with local pressure to maintain service standards and working conditions. This special double issue of the journal features a selection of papers presented at the third Commonwealth Local Government Research Colloquium held in Cardiff on 13-15 March 2011 which explored these and other important contemporary challenges. Hosted by the School of City and Regional Planning and the Centre for Local and Regional Government Research at Cardiff University, the colloquium provided a valuable opportunity for scholars from across the Commonwealth to present research on three key themes: sustainable democracy and governance, sustainable economic development and environmental sustainability.
The Local Capacity, Local Community and Local Governance Dimensions of Sustainability in Australian Local Government
Authors: Dollery Brian , Crase Lin , Grant Bligh James
Published: February 2015

The problem of the ‘financial sustainability’ of individual local councils represents the most significant policy question at issue in contemporary debate on Australian local government. This concern with financial sustainability has not only dominated almost all recent local government conferences across Australia, but it has also formed the capstone of several public inquiries into state local government systems. For instance, at the state level, both the South Australian Financial Sustainability Review Board’s (FSRB) (2005) Rising to the Challenge and the Independent Inquiry into the Financial Sustainability of NSW Local Government’ s (LGI) (2006) Are Councils Sustainable were centrally occupied with determining the meaning of financial sustainability in Australian local government and developing measures of financial sustainability. Moreover, the Queensland Local Government Association (LGAQ) (2006) Size, Shape and Sustainability (SSS) program, the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) (2006) Systemic Sustainability Study and the Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) (2007) Review of the Financial Sustainability of Local Government in Tasmania had at their core the problem of assessing financial sustainability in their respective local government systems.