Oakland's “strong mayor” reconsidered.

The article discusses the political structure of the City Council of Oakland, California, reviewing its measures to revise the powers and authority structure of the mayor. Details are given describing Mayor Jerry Brown's trial appointment as chief executive of the city in 1998 and his use of the position. Efforts by Brown to make the changes permanent are discussed, providing comments by supporter and opponents to the move. General commentary is also given discussing the nature of a "strong mayor" in municipal government.