Just a few years ago, crime was first on the list of concerns. Now, with crime rates plummeting, quality of life is first. Citizens blame problems on local governments, even if the problems aren't a local responsibility. Recently, for example, Washington State repaved Aurora Avenue in Seattle, which is part of the state highway system. We can't do anything about it.
Mayors have an odd tendency to launch reforms late in their tenure.
Baltimore's Kurt L. Schmoke decided to put together a strategic plan in the 10th year of his 12 years in office. Mayor Greg Lashutka of Columbus decided to launch a citywide strategic plan and then announced that he would not seek a third term. It takes a long time for cities to overcome mistakes made in the past. Finally, it was startling how many managers were brutally frank about their city's problems. This of course, makes our job easier.