Authors

• Foundation for Municipal Development

Keywords

consolidation of municipalities, distribution of power, local finance, local government, management, municipal councillors, municipal government, municipal managers, municipalities, political participation, public sector, public services

Abstract

The survey charted Finnish municipal councillors' opinions on municipal affairs: administration, finances, decision-making, democracy, taxation, services, leadership, and the role of elected officials. The respondents were presented with a number of statements and asked whether they agree or not. One section pertained to the respondents' own characteristics, and what kind of issues they promote (e.g. privatisation of services or interests of minorities). Councillors were also asked why they had wanted to become involved in municipal politics and decision-making. Opinions of the sufficiency of certain municipal services were canvassed.

The survey studied the respondents' views on which persons or bodies have real power in municipal decision-making, and what kind of municipal leadership system they would prefer.

Background variables included the respondents' sex, party allegiance, municipality size, and region.