More than governance structure, it is relationships between people that get things done. No one's excused. Universities, professionals, religious communities and the media are top candidates to enrich the community-leadership mix. Individual leaders still can make things happen. Respect and welcome civic-minded leaders who can make a difference.
Collaboration is messy, frustrating and indispensable.
Today, cities and regions are fumbling toward collaboration, making mistakes, but beginning to form new, inclusive institutions that can solve problems and strengthen communities. Government always needs reforming, but all the reforms need government. Governments are playing new roles as civic bridge-builders. In all its myriad forms and despite all its inefficiencies and shortcomings, government is still an essential partner for real, lasting, long-term change. Despite the rapid development and acceptance of the Internet, communities still matter.