Discussion 3 MAC
Political ambitions versus the public good – Analysis
Case studies provide “real-world” scenarios for you to practice the skills you have learned in public administration. The use of case studies has always been a common practice in the fields of medicine and the law. My goal with providing you these will be that you will see what some of the problems you will face in the field of public administration that you will be able to take the learning you have received and apply those in an environment of moving relationships and changing objectives. This is both the excitement and the challenge of this field.
The key to managing these case studies is to be engaged! As you review the case studies I am looking for you to identify the problems, analyze the issues, identify solutions, and work with others in resolving the challenge. You will quickly see that others will have a different perspective on the issue than you might and that makes the case studies even more fun as you learn to “make sausage” with other parties and interests.
For this case study, please read and become familiar with the case, analyze the case in the discussion field and answer the following questions. You will need to post your comments before you can see other comments. You are also required to read the other student posts and engage 2 students in a dialogue regarding their discussion thread (use questions/answers, expand on their theory, etc.). Dialogue is more than just a post or two, it means sincere interaction by both parties.
It will be important to post your comments early and respond often in order to meet the requirements of the assignment.
Having become familiar with the case “Political ambitions versus the public good” please give your perspective on the following questions:
1. What were the risks, benefits, and drawbacks of Manager Bradford‘s engaging so many people in the policymaking process?
2. Could the manager have influences Lang’s actions as chair of the task force?
3. What obligation does the manager have to implement the affordable housing strategy?
4. Is there anything Manager Bradford can do now to encourage the council to implement the recommendations of the affordable housing strategy?
5. Should the manager be proactive regarding the policy recommendations that have not been pursued?
6. What steps could the town manager take to build some agreement and support to protect tenants? What tools does he have at his disposal?
7. Mayor Lang will be in office for at least two more years. Should this fact play into Manager Bradford’s decision making?
