Decision‐making in local government: selected theoretical perspectives

ABSTRACT This article investigates some theoretical perspectives in respect of decisionmaking in local government. As decisionmaking in local government is highly complex in nature it is difficult to judge whether decisions are correct or incorrect at the time when they are taken. Using a particular definition of decision‐making and focusing on group decision‐making theoretical perspectives some norms are deduced which may improve the quality of decision‐making in a democratic setting. These norms are then contextualised within local government by referring to their implications in respect of the roles of elected representatives and officials and the influence of values and norms and role perceptions of these role players.