Collaborative Mechanisms in Interlocal Cooperation

Abstract

Local government administrators have embraced intergovernmental collaboration as a viable alternative in the delivery of public programs for many years, characterizing an increasing emphasis on interlocal cooperation as a response to common problems and situational needs. In the process of collaboration, local governments often use a combination of linking mechanisms, ranging in degrees of formality and specificity. This study longitudinally examines the administrative networks and mutual organizations that comprise the collaborative mechanisms of municipalities in the state of Nebraska. The findings suggest that, over time, the nature and use of interlocal cooperation mechanisms have shifted toward the more informal and general varieties.