For centuries, the city (polis in Greek and urb in Latin) stood as the defining place for family, religious, and social life.

Today, more than ever, the city must provide goods and services to its citizens. During difficult times, citizens look to city officials—elected and appointed—for good stewardship and direction.

These officials must cultivate a conspicuous sense of leadership, integrity, and ethics in order to govern effectively and share a sense of common purpose and mission.