True or false: Once a city council has prepared and adopted a strategic plan, its planning for the city’s future operations is complete.
Answer: False.
Developing a strategic plan is a collaborative process that the council undertakes with community stakeholders to develop a roadmap for the city’s future, as well as the specific goals, priorities and actions that will be necessary for the council to achieve that vision.
Steps in the process include community input, plan development, implementation and monitoring. The council should be involved throughout the process, and use the plan on an ongoing basis to guide its policy decisions and allocation of resources.
The Municipal Elected Officials Institute of Government offers in-person and online courses. On January 21, 2026, the day after Hometown Legislative Action Day, it will offer in-person versions of MEO sessions A and B. Session A covers the city as an employer, conducting public meetings, ethics and public accountability, and vision, strategic planning and goal setting. Session B covers business license tax administration, intergovernmental relations, the liability of municipalities and their elected officials, and municipal courts. Learn more online.