Letter: Opinion: Is it time to rethink Concord’s city manager system?

Published: 05-31-2025 4:07 PM

The city manager system was introduced in 1908 to curb party corruption by managing cities like businesses – emphasizing efficiency over public input. But business models aren’t democratic. In practice, this approach stripped voters of their voice while burdening them with the salaries of unelected officials who are not required to listen to the public.

In Concord, the City Manager, currently Thomas J. Aspell, Jr., holds more authority than almost anyone in city government. He is not elected by residents but appointed by the City Council. He manages city operations, including the budget, departments, and staff – decisions that directly impact our daily lives. Two Deputy City Managers, also unelected and hired by him, assist. Collectively, they earn close to half a million dollars annually.

That’s a significant amount of taxpayer money – and power – concentrated in roles with no direct accountability to the public.

Concord didn’t always operate this way. Until 1993, we had a “mayor-council” system where the mayor, elected by voters, held executive authority. That system offered clearer accountability and gave citizens a direct voice.

If we want a transparent, responsive government that serves the people, not just insiders – it may be time to return to that model. Concord is full of thoughtful, engaged citizens. We deserve a government that reflects our priorities, not one insulated by bureaucracy.

The real question is: Can the people’s voice still be heard through so many layers of unelected authority – and is this really the most efficient use of our tax dollars?

Megan Schmitt

Concord

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