What does a City Councillor in a “Plan-E-esque” city do?
Cambridge has a modified “Plan E” form of government, in which the City Council serves primarily as the community’s policy-setting and legislative body, while the day-to-day administration of the city is carried out by the City Manager. The Council debates and adopts ordinances, establishes long-term goals, approves the budget, and provides oversight by setting expectations for how the city should operate and evolve. Councillors work closely with residents, commissions, and subject-matter experts to ensure that policies reflect community values and needs.
The City Manager, appointed by the Council, is responsible for implementing those policies, managing staff, directing municipal operations, ensuring that services are delivered effectively and efficiently, and balancing the budget. While the Council defines the “what” and “why” of city governance, the City Manager handles the “how,” turning policy direction into action. This structure is designed to balance democratic accountability with professional administration, ensuring continuity, transparency, and responsive government.
