By Lorri Matthewson (Founder and Lead Consultant Matthewson & Co.) www.smallplacesrock.com   Municipalities run on a combination of legislation, bylaws, policies, and day-to-day administrative practices.  In theory, these elements work together to create a transparent, consistent, and legally compliant system of local governance. In reality, many municipalities rely far more on practice than on policy—and often don’t realize that there could be consequences.   Across the muni

Every municipality has “that Councillor.” And if you haven’t yet, there is always the next election! You know which one I mean. They are the ones who cannot resist micromanaging staff. They are the ones who treat the CAO like their personal assistant. They are the ones who promise the residents something they cannot deliver, then stir up drama on the socials, or freelance their own agenda as if they were a one-person show. They boss the public works staff around, follow the g