References

The following quotations have been extracted from various newspaper clippings, evaluation surveys and letters in relation to the consulting or seminar work of George B. Cuff & Associates Ltd.

CAMA Presentation, Milwaukee, Wis; September 2011

Thank you for your presentation at ICMA regarding the expectations of the Council and Staff in a City. For me, it was the most valuable session of the entire conference. As a young administrator in the field I have a lot to learn! Many of these principals were glazed over in management classes, and working with a council was rarely discussed in my Master’s program. Furthermore, your suggestions of what a council and staff expects were do-able and practical things.

Alberta Agricultural Association Training Seminar (Oct-Nov. 2010)

Hard to improve on “awesome.” Keep it up. Need more question and answer time. Q & A was continuous, not a specified time. Thank you, very interesting. Everything was great. Loved the stories. They relate well to the topic and were fun to hear, made it easier to follow the points. Awesome seminar, way more than interesting! The presentation exceeded my expectations. As valuable a seminar as I’ve attended. Thanks to George and organizers. This is valuable info that all boards need. I have taken away some new useful info even better being involved with boards for ten years. George has an excellent presentation style. It was a good use of the day. Appreciate the jokes told around break time. Good mood awareness piece.

Blackfalds Regional Orientation Seminar (October 2010)

I found that everything you were saying was based on really good fundamental goals and characteristics such as; good ethics, purpose, ambition, and teamwork. I didn’t know what to expect out of the seminar but I was definitely more interested in the subject that I first anticipated! I always knew you were well spoken and command attention but I also found you to be very engaging and able to keep your crowd’s attention through a variety of topics. I like that you can speak from experience, whether it be through the course of your political career or the consultant side of things, and that when you share stories with everyone that you are doing that to assist them with their course of action in the hopes that they will heed your advice. (Source: One of my 3 daughters!)

Rocky View, Alberta (Regional Orientation Seminar October 2010)

I wanted to thank you again for presenting last Friday. I have had a lot of very good feedback not only from Rocky View Councillors but also from other communities in attendance.

GFOA Conference, Lethbridge, Alberta (May 2010)

I wanted to let you know that I really enjoyed your presentation at this year's GFOA in Lethbridge. You have given me some great insight into some things that I can begin to develop for our organization. I'm looking forward to the presentation you will be giving our newly elected councilors in a few weeks.

Evergreen Baptist Societies (January 1010)

Thank you for “enriching our lives” at Saturday’s education session. There is no doubt that we all gleaned better insight into our roles and trust that implementation will proceed as soon as possible.

City of Westmount (2009)

George brings a dose of common sense to his audience that is refreshing and fortunately, very important to be a successful municipal officer – elected or appointed.

District of Merritt, BC Orientation for New Councils (Regional) (January 2008)

It was excellent. I’d strongly recommend it.

City of Terrace (December 2008)

I just wanted to thank you for an excellent session during our 2 day Local Governance Training Workshop in Terrace. It was a great start to the program and I heard many compliments about your presentation. Again, thank you for fitting us in to your schedule.

Great job; very informative
Should have more time to cover material
Very helpful, engaging, good pace
Answered all questions with good advice
Shotgun approach too much
Strong speaker with convictions
Items that were discussed were very relevant
Should have had more time
Very good presentation; well put together and informative.
Thank you, this being my first elected official participating as administrator, I really appreciated your "Tone at the Top" and the "One employee". The information will add value to our First Nation. Thanks for the book readings. I love books and I'm always looking for recommendations.
Excellent presentation – it's comforting to know that we are on the right track – but, we're not perfect.
Well facilitated and very organized and informative
A lot of information that can be used.
Very well presented. Using humour as a tool made it easier to reflect on the message
Awesome presentation. Very interactive. Presented in a manner that captured my attention
It was better the second time around!! Thank you.
Excellent! I could have absorbed his "admonitions", advice and expertise for another 4 hours.
George's presentation was very in-depth and informative and provided an absolutely clear portrayal of the roles and responsibilities of elected officials with all other aspects in government and the community. I loved your sense of humour.
As always, good presentation of good information. Always learn something new each time and reaffirm a lot of what I am doing passes the test.
A lot of very important information in a very short period of time.
Fantastic information and insight for us first term politicians.
Excellent presentation of the way it is. Appreciated hearing the ?straight goods" alongside my Council. Nothing flowery or fluffy – just the way it is.
Very informative from a newly elected Councillor's point of view. Helps to extinguish bad habits before they arise.
Very strong and committed to what he teaches and believes.
Outstanding! That is all that needs to be said.

Town of Gibsons BC (December 2008)

On behalf of the Town and senior staff I would like to offer the following:
"George Cuff gives a very dynamic, yet down to earth presentation that coupled with his experiences provide both new and seasoned elected officials and municipal managers a very clear understanding of good governance and role responsibility. If you are in local government this session is a must.”

Regional Orientation Session, Northern BC (December 2008)

Comments for George Cuff:

Great job; very informative
Should have more time to cover material
Very helpful, engaging, good pace
Answered all questions with good advice
Shotgun approach too much
Strong speaker with convictions
Items that were discussed were very relevant
Should have had more time
Very good presentation; well put together and informative.
Thank you, this being my first elected official participating as administrator, I really appreciated your "Tone at the Top" and the "One employee". The information will add value to our First Nation. Thanks for the book readings. I love books and I'm always looking for recommendations.
Excellent presentation – it's comforting to know that we are on the right track – but, we're not perfect.
Well facilitated and very organized and informative
A lot of information that can be used.
Very well presented. Using humour as a tool made it easier to reflect on the message
Awesome presentation. Very interactive. Presented in a manner that captured my attention
Very knowledgeable – deals with difficult issues in a humorous way.
It was better the second time around!! Thank you.
Should do each time after election.
Lots of good advice – re: pitfalls to avoid
Excellent! I could have absorbed his "admonitions", advice and expertise for another 4 hours.
Always entertaining; very useful info; says the things that need to be said but hard for staff to say
Great presentation and information/advice. Kept my attention throughout the presentation.
George's presentation was very in-depth and informative and provided an absolutely clear portrayal of the roles and responsibilities of elected officials with all other aspects in government and the community. I loved your sense of humour.
Second time taking this type of workshop in and was able to get a lot more from it – after being on Council a couple years this helped me to view my involvement with a renewed/supportive confidence. Thank you.
As always, good presentation of good information. Always learn something new each time and reaffirm a lot of what I am doing passes the test.
A lot of very important information in a very short period of time.
Very good speaker, makes you think
Outstanding/well worth the effort even in -25 temperature
Very informative from a newly elected Councillor's point of view. Helps to extinguish bad habits before they arise.
For a new Council – a lot of good information in such a short time – would suggest longer
Very strong and committed to what he teaches and believes.
Outstanding! That is all that needs to be said.
Very awesome info, will help in our style of Government with change for the good!
Very clear, concise and to the point. Excellent story telling technique
Excellent knowledge of subject, great sense of humour.
Good anecdotes, dynamic speaker
Very informative and examples reinforce the good (and bad) of material presented.
Would have liked to have more time (lots to digest) – but great. Would recommend a full day session or two half days.
As always, though provoking & really useful.
Clear, informative, entertaining and engaging.
Very good presentation on what could have been a dry subject. Very challenging as a Christian I appreciated the Christian values that was obvious to me as the backbone of strength of the presentation.
Would like to see more interaction with audience.
Thanks George – a hard act to follow.
George – my third session with you. Enjoyed each one and I used your book for reference on many occasions.
Always find Mr. Cuff's workshops informative and he keeps the crowd interested.
I found Mr. Cuff to be a strong speaker. The information he presented was very relevant. I especially liked his council policy suggestions.
Great presentation – only an expert can speak for a morning and keep everyone's attention. Very well presented with excellent information. Thank you.

CAO Sunshine Coast municipality

George Cuff gives a very dynamic, yet down to earth presentation that coupled with his experiences provide both new and seasoned elected officials and municipal managers a very clear understanding of good governance and role responsibility. If you are in local government this session is a must.

City Manager, White Rock, BC (December 2008)

Hi George - great session yesterday. I always appreciate this type of session that is clear, concise and to the point.

CAO, southern Okanagan District (December 2008)

Thank you for a very informative and educational session, the refresher was really very good for me. Your presentation fell on some virgin council ears and is producing a crop already. I can only go by what our mayor says in that "the councilors he drove up the mountain were very much different than the ones that he drove back down the mountain ".

Coordinator of Central Alberta Orientation Seminar (2008)

I did want you to know that the Council Orientation that we did with you last fall has certainly had a positive impact with Council. The desire to get involved in administration has significantly diminished and they very much respect the role of administration.

Organizer of the LGMA Conference in Sydney, BC (April 2008)

The feedback from the group was that your presentations were excellent. You certainly kept everyone's attention for the entire afternoon, which isn't an easy time-slot. Many people approached me to ask for you're a copy of your presentation. We will e-mail it to everyone who had registered for the conference. The members felt that this was the best conference we've ever had, and you certainly were a big reason for that.

Participant at Elected Officials Orientation Seminar in Alberta October - November 2007

"I learned more off that session than I have from any of the other courses that I have taken since becoming a CAO in 2003"

Coordinator of Session for the College and Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta - September 2007

“I just wanted to say thank you again for the excellent session you gave on September 19. We heard many positive comments from councilors who attended. All 13 respondents rated your session as ‘very useful’, so congratulations - - you seem to have hit on just what was needed for this group!

CAO of a BC Regional District involved in a Governance Audit by Cuff in June 2007

“Thank you for your frank and straight forward review of our governance here at the Regional District. It is sometimes difficult to translate best practices for local government governance, as you have written in "Municipal World", into a workable and understandable set of organizational specific recommendations. Both the staff and Board are pleased with our definitive plan for suggested changes for better governance. Your work here has pointed us on a better way forward. Thanks again”.

Participant at the Association of Manitoba Municipalities Seminar - April 2007

“I attended your seminar today in Winnipeg and found it to be very informative, practical minded and close to many of the issues that I believe confound many municipal councils in Manitoba”.

North Central Municipal Association Conference 2006 (Prince George BC)

"Good examples provided with the situations; George brought the issues and was clear the problems that could be created"
"Great wealth of information; very relevant to all groups in attendance, not just local government groups"
"Excellent for everyone – especially great for new people"
"An amazing amount of facts and information. Extremely educational and beneficial which definitely will give a positive reflection on my decision making as a Councillor and hopefully I can take this info back to the rest of our town’s elected officials"
"Very direct – George gets right to the point"
"George knows his stuff! The thoughts & recommendations are priceless. Very valuable information. I wish there were more here from our council

Pre-Conference Seminar April 2006 (Alberta Local Government Administrators)

Valued Mr. Cuff’s experiences of the problems that exist between Council and their CAO’s; picked up many little tips that I previously had uncertainty about
Actual examples given and discussed; tips to help us in our jobs
Reaffirmation of doing the right things right; frank discussion and advice that George provided
His straight forward “off the Cuff” remarks wealth of experience and knowledge
Learning from George’s history; information and examples given
Hearing George’s stories and real life examples
Positive constructive comments and information. Not a lot of negativity.
George has a wealth of knowledge and he gets the message across; stories of experiences with actual cases
The side topic of areas covered in a concise and clear manner. Very educational.
Understanding the roles within the organization.
CAO performance review – measuring ourselves.
His entire presentation.
Possessed a very good solid knowledge of the subject. Presentation was very well done and knowledge is very valuable to me; all around great presentations; always enjoy hearing George Cuff speak
CAO role with Council, Excellent and interesting beginning to the conference.
Excellent information , very worthwhile.

CEO of the Alberta College of Paramedics (March 2007)

“Your session was extremely well received and set the stage for the strategic work that Council undertook over the 3 days that followed. Paramedics, by nature, are no nonsense type of folks. You were able to speak to them in a way and manner that was conducive to their learning. This College and its Council have been working very hard over the past year to not only learn and understand governance, but make it a part of how the organization conducts itself. Every member had voiced how they saw that this was the most productive and “strategic” planning session they have ever been a part of. It was interesting; on at least two occasions throughout the planning session someone would say “remember what George told us”. This speaks volumes to your impact and contributions to the entire three days and into the future”.

Internship Coordinator for Alberta Municipal Affairs (July 2007)

“On behalf of the interns, and the Municipal Internship Program staff, thank you for your very thorough presentation during the Internship Wrap-Up. We really appreciate your efforts to make the presentation applicable to the interns and to take the time to answer their questions. The interns learned a lot of valuable information from your presentation that they will be able to use during the remainder of their internship, and throughout their careers. Thank you again for your time and your expertise.

November 2006 Institute of Management Consultants-November 2006)

“…may I offer you my very special thanks for your superb presentation today on "The Art of Governance..." Your comments and anecdotes strongly resonated with the audience, most of whom are connected with governance (good, bad or otherwise) in their professional and/or personal capacities. I particularly enjoyed your comments about giving back to the community. I really appreciate your significant contributions to our continuing education session - and the management consulting profession

Press Release-Seminar in Mannville , Alberta - February 2006

"There are many potholes to avoid when serving on Council. One of the most serious potholes is to allow two ?teams' to emerge. It is extremely difficult to work together towards collective goals for the good of the entire municipality if Council is divided among itself. Council members didn't get elected as clones, but as diverse personalities. "Council consists of average citizens representing average citizens," said Cuff.

Participant at a BC Elected Officials Session - January 2006

"I just wanted to say how pleased I was that Victor had planned this seminar and to say thank you for his vision and planning skills. I am sorry I questioned the cost. The future of our council's success has already been influenced positively and our challenge will be to make sure it remains a winning team. Respect, integrity, openness and transparency were some of the key reminders for me, from the seminar. The involvement of several layers of staff was an especially important factor that some of us might have overlooked. They were keen and appreciative of the chance to play their part as members of our team".

Participant at a School Board Seminar - December 2005

"Thank you for collecting the assessments for us and also for bringing this session to our attention; we were pleased to be able to work with you to provide such an excellent learning opportunity. Judging from the registration response we had from within Zone 4, the presentation was meaningful, timely and valuable - we had most of our Divisions represented".

Seminar Participant - December 2005

"It is my hope, that every member of our council attending your workshop at Kamloops will have had the opportunity to at least scan your book, before coming. What a difference it would make, if that happened. Once again, thanks for writing this book. It is truly a jewel of organizational effectiveness in the municipal political world".

"I was most appreciative that our CAO worked with yourself and the other municipalities to set up the orientation session for council and staff at Schooner Cove. It made an incredible difference to our start on council and has certainly been great backup for the approach that I prefer to take to governance. The timing at the very beginning of the term was excellent".

The Chair of a Regional Health Authority - August 2005

"Our chair reported that the board members felt the session was very successful. We will be having further discussions on various points at future meetings".

Quote from a Reader of Municipal World - August 2005

"I always read your articles in Municipal World and thought your comments about ethics in the July edition were particularly appropriate given some of the things that have recently happened in a city just to the north… As you know it is critical for local government to keep "raising the bar" when it comes to ethics and integrity. More and more people are cynical about those in government, and sometimes for good reason, but that shouldn't stop the rest of us from doing what we can to keep encouraging each other to do the right things. Thanks for doing just that!!"

Seminar for the Samson Cree Nation - July 2005

"The Governance seminar of June 28, 2005 was absolutely a powerful, intriguing seminar for our honorable leaders of Samson Cree Nation. A powerful stepping stone for our First Nation…in fact, I received consensus from our Board of Directors to have you come back and assist us in the development of Governance Policies & Procedures. Could you call me as soon as possible to arrange a seminar date?''.

National Summit of Municipal Governance - July 2005

It was good to see you at the event in Toronto . Your presentation was on the mark as always, and provided an excellent context for the rest of the conference. I heard wonderful comments on it over the two days.

Corporate Review-Town of Creston - July 2005

"Thank you very much for your excellent report and for your presentation to the public, which was also superb! The people really enjoyed it and were able to appreciate your keen clarity and professionalism."

Participants, LGMA Council-Staff Relations, Whistler, BC

"It gave me hope for public leadership and got me excited! I want to hear and learn more!"

"Although we can't pick our councils, we can contribute to clearer understanding of local government, in particular elected officials role and staff rolls. Your insight into the things we do to confuse them, was of particular interest. It was heart warming to hear someone "at the front of the room" passionate about and encouraging public sector leaders not to prostitute values, to be ethical in public & private lives and to contemplate personal convictions…not the easy road. You have been spoken of, in the most respectful way, for years by our CAO. I now see how bits and pieces of the principles you promote have worked their way into our organization, under his leadership".

"Mr. Cuff - firstly I must say again how much I enjoyed your presentation and reiterate that I wish it had been for a whole day".

"Big issue sessions or best practice sessions are always welcome. I especially liked George Cuff's session and wish we had been allotted an extra hour (perhaps an earlier start time)".

Client, Mountain View County

Just wanted to once again personally thank you for a wonderful workshop on Tuesday. It was probably the most valuable use of our time to date. Perhaps after last weeks council meeting and its electric events we are all willing to be good learners!! The timing was so perfect!"

Client, Town of Fort Erie , Ontario - February 2005

Regarding our session two weeks ago, we had three workshops over the two days. The first was with Directors and staff reporting to directors, the second was with Council members only, and the third was with Council and the staff who regularly attend Council meetings. We found the workshops to be well worth the cost. Many participants had specific questions that they wanted answered, in front of the other participants. George has a unique way of blending the questions and answers into the discussion, so that the answer is clear, but individuals do not feel singled out. I received positive feedback from all Members of Council, as well as senior staff. Our Council is also very cost conscious, but finds George's advice to be helpful, as it is based on similar experiences in other municipalities.

I agree that it would be helpful to have a training session such as George's within the first few weeks of the election. While a Regional presentation is helpful from a cost basis, I think that the workshop format we used is the most effective.

Client, City of Nelson - February 2005

Thanks again George for a great workshop. I always make a commitment to myself, when I attend a conference or workshop, to work on 3 things that I learned over the next 3-4 months. At our regular meeting with my planning/building staff this afternoon we did commit to hold an ideas session and to set new goals and objectives. So I do learn even after 28 ½ years!

Guelph Mercury - November 23rd 2004

With the flashlight of an outsider, George went looking to see if our problem was bacteria, bureaucratic calcification or political cancer. In homeopathic terms, here's what I heard George say about our elected team. Leadership hesitant, behaviour undisciplined, disrespect boundless, inexperience obvious, process arbitrary, bullying perpetual, trust eroding, gap wide and deep, little thought of future.

Guelph Tribune - November 19th 2004

It's okay to be opposed on values, issues and priorities. What is not constructive is personal attacks the Alberta consultant said. Cuff is recommending significant changes to the way both council and the city administration are organized.

Kneehill County - June 2004

We did a quick poll of the management committee this morning and they said that this session was the best ever. They really appreciated your comments and that you reinforced (the importance of) governance, leadership, Council-staff relationships and giving the best administrative recommendations.

Municipalities of Beaver County , Alberta - 2004

Your presentation and delivery received rave reviews from all attendees. Based on the positive feedback, we look forward to having you return in 2007 for another joint Council orientation.

City of Lethbridge – 2004

Just a short note to thank you for your participation in our first day of the City Council orientation yesterday. I believe all members of City Council, including the returnees, found your presentation to be insightful, thought provoking and enlightening. You have a way of making the roles clear and elevating the expectations. Very interesting.

Former Mayor Susan Thompson, City of Winnipeg - 2004

Your article "The Mayor" brought back many memories....in particular how much I appreciated your skills in helping us effect change at City Hall. You bet much was accomplished and has served the citizens of Winnipeg far more than they realize. Ironic isn't it. The end results were positive and a good legacy was built and you were very important in this process and helped us make a difference, of which I will always be most grateful. Keep up the good work!

Gibbons, Alberta - 2004

Just wanted to give you a little feedback from the session that you facilitated in Gibbons, Alberta . I have heard comments such as: this is the best that I have ever attended; it was awesome; wow, always able to learn usable things; everything makes sense now; so much energy, so much to give. I just want to say that I was extremely pleased with the session and those who did not attend certainly missed an opportunity to obtain such valuable information that can be used in our every changing political arena. Thank you again and I hope you enjoyed it as much as we did.

City of Peterborough - 2004

We are very pleased that you could come to Peterborough and share your expertise. George, many, many thanks for the tremendous session(s). I have received only positive feedback. Things went really well George - every body (and I mean everybody) indicated that it was a good session. They want me to book you for December 2006 now!!!!

Westlock and Area, Alberta - 2004

The Elected Officials Orientation Session held in Westlock was very much a success. The response was very positive and the participants commented that the session was extremely informative, helpful and enlightening. The material covered all aspects of what it will take to be a successful elected official and provided valuable insight into the complexities of the job, responsibilities to address and an appreciation for the role that the CAO and senior staff play in the dynamics of the organization. Once again, thank you for agreeing to the session.

Lamont County and Area - 2004

Thank-you very much for an excellent presentation to Lamont County Council, Town Councillors and senior staff... Everyone commented on the value of the presentation. They had attended another session earlier and all felt that your presentation was much more thorough and helpful as they embark on this new term in office. You have knowledge of the recent challenges that have faced Lamont County and were able to direct the training to these specific issues as well as to the broader audience.

Association of Manitoba Municipalities 2004

I offer my genuine thanks for your attendance and simply outstanding keynote presentation and subsequent workshop session during the AMM's 6 th Annual Convention. The Directors were thoroughly impressed with your entertaining stories and very true to life words regarding life as an elected official.

Highlands newspaper June 2004

Be less predictable and more inclusive, corporate consultant George Cuff advised Highlands Council on June 14th (2004)Cuff, who has spent nearly 30 years conducting corporate reviews of municipalities across Canada, was reporting on his recently-completed examination of how Highlands council, staff and advisory committees function.

Simcoe County - 2004

The reactions of my Council members to your presentation was unanimously positive. The content and style of delivery was excellent and all those in attendance enjoyed it very much. I will now be circulating them to see who wants a copy of your recent book, and expect that many of them will want us to buy it for them.

City of Niagara Falls - 2003

We are extremely happy with how the Orientation and staff sessions went on November 27th and 28th. We have assembled a list of forty or more recommendations for future action based on your presentations. We have also started the process of updating the policies and procedures. It was a real pleasure working with you and I hope that we will have the opportunity to do so again in the near future. Thank you for sharing your experience and providing us with great insight.

City of Swift Current , Saskatchewan - 2003

Thank-you for your presentation earlier this month. It was very well received by both Council and Administration, and given us all lots of "food for thought" and "ideas for action" as we begin to work together with our new Council. We are planning a follow-up session with our Council on January 12, to discuss, implement and plan some of the recommendations from your session with us.

King Township December - 2003

We have had some really positive feedback from the orientation sessions. I was particularly impressed with your straightforward candor and the way you add humour to the mix, really enjoyable!

The Sudbury Star-February 7th, 2002

"Citing unbearably long Council meetings, ignorance of key policy issues and confusion about the role of Council in setting policy and dealing with the public…Council has hired a municipal consultant (George Cuff) to advise it…"

Edmonton Journal-October 11th, 2001

When the people of Spruce Grove get hold of a mayor, they don't like to let go. George Cuff served four terms as mayor in the late 1970s and 1980s…Cuff ?had strong leadership qualities and a pulse on the growing community, which during his time as mayor was doubling in size every year" says Allan Shenfield, a long-time County resident.

The Barrhead Leader - August 28th, 2001

"The county is now focusing on implementing as many of Cuff's 39 recommendations as it can…(Reeve) Borg would like to implement all of Cuff's suggestions, particularly those dealing with the administration."

Whitecourt Star-September 26th, 2001

"At the top of Cuff's hit list is Council itself. He said that councillors have spent too much time bickering instead of dealing with the issues…Not all the results of the study were negative. Cuff said the county is still fairly well run and has a strong assessment base on which to grow".

Yellowknife News - July 2, 2001

"The territorial government recently hired a high profile consultant to tell them what is wrong with NWT health care. He's released a report that says what the government is afraid to say publicly, namely that politics and health don't mix."

Peace Arch News - February 26, 2001

"All members of Council must recognize their colleagues were elected by the people and learn to tolerate differences of opinion and dissent, Cuff said. Otherwise the system breaks down."

The Edmonton Journal - April 3rd, 1999

The tone of the consultant's latest volley is set on the first page of his (Cuff's) report. "We believe that the authority has not been well-served in terms of its leadership" he writes. "This stems from a lack of understanding as to the level and quality of decision-making required to govern and manage a health authority within a reasonable budget envelope and policy guideline".

The Edmonton Sun - February 19th, 1999

Health Minister Halvar Jonson staged his own St. Valentines Week Massacre …firing all 15 members of the deficit-ridden Lakeland Regional Health Authority…Jonson said an independent report by consultant George Cuff found nearly $7million in potential savings and also said the board was split with dissension and had lost the confidence of the people it served…according to John Pilipchuk, who was fired after only being appointed in September,' the board was irrevocably split'.

Insight into Government (Volume 13 Number 27 - March 5th,1999

"Part of the package was a government appointed consultant to examine the way the board was doing its work and confronting the $6.7 million deficit…The consultant was George Cuff, a well-known , respected management consultant with a national reputation. Cuff, we are told, is a no-nonsense guy who means business".

The Vancouver Sun - September 26th, 1998 (Editorial p.A.22)

West Vancouver council…should have remembered the adage: Don't ask questions unless you're prepared to get answers you don't like. They commissioned a performance audit. They got a report that criticizes their leadership and professionalism. Now they're busy whiting out the unflattering bits before they release the report to the public. This self-serving behaviour only confirms the report's most damning observations. George Cuff, the Edmonton consultant who wrote it…identified lack of leadership as the number one problem in West Vancouver governance.

District of Maple Ridge-letter of June 30th, 1998

"To confirm, the restructuring project that you recommended in Maple Ridge was implemented and is working very well". CAO

The City of Port Colborne, Ontario-letter of May 27th, 1998

"I believe that we have accomplished a lot and your report was the start of it all". (CAO Cecil Vincent)

The Town Crier and Powell River News - April, 1998 ( Powell River , B.C.)

"George Cuff & Associates Ltd. compiled a study of the municipal structure from the mayor's office to the most junior part-time worker. He presented his conclusions to council late last month. Council members have pledged they will implement his recommendations fully and that commitment should include anything related to their own performances."

"Mayor Arnold Carlson issued a brief press release Wednesday, officially announcing layoffs reported last week in the Town Crier and Powell River News. The move is expected to save the municipality $1.2 million in 1999".

"When a car goes bump, you take it to a mechanic. When an organization goes bump, you call an organization consultant. Cuff said he has done similar work for about 300 other municipalities. A municipality is not unlike other organizations."

Local Government Leadership - November, 1997

"Your candor is admirable and I think this sent a powerful message to people who think they have to be someone else to succeed in their lives." (course participant)

Winnipeg Free Press - October 30th, 1997

"When consultant George Cuff walks into town good things happen, say senior officials…Cuff was hired by Niagara Region in 1990 to make the regional government run more efficiently. The changes Cuff recommended have saved the Region millions of dollars and helped prepare for the massive downloading of government services…"He's improved the way we do business" said Niagara Region CAO Michael Boggs …

Brock University political scientist David Siegel said Cuff helped the regional councillors focus on what their duties were…

Count the seven year old town of Banff among Cuff's successes as well. Mayor Ted Hart said Cuff worked with officials to create a town out of the middle of a national park, something without precedent worldwide. "He essentially designed the municipality" said Hart. "The town hasn't used him since, but that isn't because he didn't do a good job. It's probably because he did such a good job".

The Reporter - October 14th, 1997 ( Sechelt , BC )

"The report by George B. Cuff and Associates is a castigating account of current district operations… It suggests that administrative leadership is lacking, departments do not work well with each other… Baldwin (the chair) calls the report ?a 30 year correction'…"

Winnipeg Free Press - October 11, 1997 ( Winnipeg, Man. )

"Twenty-five years after being created, the present political and administrative structures have outlived their usefulness," Cuff said. "The horse is dead. Dismount, " Cuff said of his assessment of the administrative organization at city hall.""A blueprint for the way Winnipeg should be run streamlines the bureaucracy and puts more power into the hands of politicians. City of Winnipeg : A Corporate Review calls for the most major shakeup if civic government in 25 years, with sweeping changes to Winnipeg 's political and administrative structures.

"Written by one of Canada 's foremost municipal government experts, George Cuff, the report is a vindication of Mayor Susan Thompson's efforts to make government more effective and accountable."

"Everything I see in this report is what I've been saying since I came here as the mayor of change," Thompson said following the release yesterday of the organizational review and performance assessment."

The Northern Pioneer - July 16th, 1997

"The written report on the state of affairs of the Municipal District of Mackenzie is scheduled to be completed this week…Alberta Municipal Affairs Minister Iris Evans ordered the review and hired Cuff… Having spoken to Cuff last week, MLA Friedel said that they have a very good insight into the affairs of the municipality".

Provincial Health Authorities of Alberta - letter of May 12, 1997

"The fact that crowds gathered at your door provided us all with an indication of how important the information on the Best Practices Initiative is to health authorities. Early analysis of the Forum evaluations indicate that delegates were pleased with the content of your presentation."(John Boksteyn, Chair, Forum Planning Committee)

Union of BC Municipalities-letter of March 19th, 1997

"Your involvement as a presenter was also well received as ever (with top-notch ratings of 4.7-4.8 out of 5.0 for all of your sessions) and assisted in making the program both practical and highly informative for all who attended".

The Town of Richmond Hill - letter of December 3, 1996

"Your thoughts, ideas, discussions and wisdom were much appreciated. I've come away from this presentation with a very positive attitude and a better appreciation and understanding for balancing family and work priorities."

Sunny South News - September 17,1996 (Lethbridge,AB)

"County Councillors need to get their act together, according to a corporate review done for the County of Lethbridge this summer." Council hired George B. Cuff and Associates Ltd. to review the organization this year, focusing on Council and the upper levels of administration...The executive summary of the review points its finger at a lack of common understanding as to goals and objectives, differing personal styles, and apprehension as to motives and ethics as an impediment to proper functioning of the Council.

The Western Star - April 26th, 1996 ( Corner Brook , Nfld)

Corner Brook 's City Council has had some difficult decisions dumped in their laps. Council commissioned George B. Cuff and Associates Ltd. to review the operation of the city and recommend cost-saving changes.

The report was made public Thursday and it suggests some strong medicine to cure the city's mounting financial problems".

Cochrane This Week - August, 1995 (Cochrane,AB)

"The Review was requested by Council, and focused on: the organization structure and resources, style of management, morale, Council's system of government, the roles and responsibilities of the Mayor and Council, Council's relationship with staff, the operations of each department and the staff compensation plan.

"It became evident to our consulting team early on during the course of the study that the kind of Council/CAO relationship which underlies the most effective system of local government was simply not evident here in Cochrane. Quite simply, the relationship had deteriorated over time and was causing stress as a result," the Cuff report found.

Administration - Town employees concerns were summarized as "an inadequate degree of perceived teamwork between Council and the administration" and poor morale, due to a variety of reasons".

The Chronicle Herald - August 2, 1996 (Amherst, N.S.)

"The town might not need a consultant, the mayor said, if it were to follow recommendations consultant George Cuff made in a 1991 report that was never released in its entirety."

"It's a good report, and it's a shame that maybe I hadn't brought it out first a long time ago," said Mrs. Gouchie (mayor), a councillor when the report was compiled. Recommendations in a 40-page section dealing with the relationship among the mayor, council and staff were never acted upon. "The problems that people are saying we have now are the same ones that were identified in the 1991 consultant's report," she said.

City of Fernie newspaper - July 1996

"Fernie City Council wants to implement all 23 of an efficiency expert's recommendations…Cuff's report on the Public Works department indicates how staff and equipment maintenance cost reductions…will produce a $360,000 net savings per year".

The Town of Wolfville - July 18, 1996 ( Wolfville , N.S. )

"With respect to Council operations, we introduced at Council on July 15, first reading for bylaws which empower the new committee structure. All in all, since you were with us last fall there have been incredible changes - very positive changes. Council and staff have worked very hard to make the changes - new policy development, new bylaws, etc. etc. My sense is that the end result is going to be a client oriented, fair, responsive system of local government. We thank you for setting us in this much needed direction."

Gwen Phillips, Mayor

The Quarter Section - August, 1995 (Pincher Creek,AB)

"We are uncertain as to what has gone off the rails... It is our understanding, however, that the public does not believe the system is fair and consistent." - George Cuff.

Cuff identified four key issues concerning Council's problems: (1) lack of confidence and trust in the system, (2) inadequate focus on corporate policies, (3) inadequate advice from administration to Council, (4) and inadequate decision -making process. The report found fault with both Council and administration. Cuff pointed out that Council was making decisions without regard for their effect upon existing policy. This meant that staff were uncertain over how they should act. Administration reports were considered to be weak and poorly researched with regard to some issues. The report called upon Council to adopt "a community vision" in order to provide strong and focused leadership.

Cuff made several recommendations regarding the M.D. of Pincher Creek's organizational structure and personnel requirements.

The Cuff report presents some fascinating reading and much food for thought.

Whether or not it represents the best blueprint for improving things within the M.D. of Pincher Creek remains to be seen. Council will have to weigh Cuff's value judgments.

Town of Cold Lake - May, 1995

"From the onset of the corporate review, we strongly encouraged both Council and staff to openly participate in the process. This helped us gain an understanding of where we were at the time and where we needed to be as a growing community. I found Council to very understanding with Mr. Cuff and his associates throughout the process. They gained a strong understanding of their roles and the role and mandate that the wish to pass on the office of the Chief Administrator.With the completion of the review, the management job changed immensely. Council's desire to focus on steering our community as opposed to rowing it was evident. The improved understanding of clearly set mandates was one of the most immediate benefits of the review. We have since managed to create an entrepreneurial government system that has proven itself project after project. This has resulted in cost savings and service levels have improved beyond even our initial expectations."

D. Lafond, CAO

Strathcona County - April, 1995

"The professional approach you and your associates demonstrated throughout the project was appreciated."

The Standard - March, 1995 (St. Catherines, Ont. )

"Mayor Unwin told Cuff he helped us focus on the key issues and was adamant the ideas raised will not be ignored."

The Banff Centre for Management, July 1994

"George presents the real world. The one that we are involved in on a day to day basis. He presents the picture from a third person perspective that we can compare with our own observations. Very valuable session! All municipal employees should be exposed to that process of comparing their viewpoints and observations to a benchmark"

The Tribune - January 15,1994 ( Port Colborne , Ont.)

"Mr. Cuff, in a very professional and interesting way, gave us a talk that could well have been titled "What you always wanted to know about municipal government but were afraid to ask!" A most informative and at times shocking, always thought-provoking revelation indeed. Those responsible for the commissioning of Mr. Cuff for the study and having the intestinal fortitude to act on his recommendations are to be commended."

Port Colborne News - December 20,1993 ( Port Colborne , Ont.)

"My attitude is - the kind of person who would be nervous about the Cuff Report, isn't the kind of person who would be a good CAO, " he noted. "If you're looking for a clam bake, look somewhere else."

The Daily News - November 15, 1993 (Halifax)

"The report says that the city charter should be revised because it ?may be acting as an impediment to good decision-making through being too …restrictive.'" "Perhaps this should have been done five or ten years ago-a session like this with Council sitting down with staff and looking at changes" said Mayor Moira Ducharme.

Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties - November 29, 1993

"On behalf of the A.A.M.D. & C. Executive and delegates attending our recent fall convention, we would like to thank you for your participation in our program.

Your presentation on the respective roles of council's, councillor's, reeves and staff is municipal government was straight forward and insightful, and we certainly appreciate your contribution to the success of our convention."

Pincher Creek Echo - May 13, 1993 ( Pincher Creek , AB )

"According to the Mayor, Council fully intends to implement recommendations from the Corporate Review." "I have a feeling Council will implement most, if not all of the recommendations," Teran remarked. "It would be foolish to reject the recommendations of a specialist."

Faculty of Extension, University of Alberta - February, 1993

"Very straight- forward and to the point. Excellent points made. Delivered with humor and a great deal of expertise. Very good - knows his topic. Good transfer of experience and practical application."

The Boardroom Files - December 22, 1992 (Halifax, N.S.)

"I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the contributions that you have made to "The Boardroom Files" and its French counterpart, La Vie Municipale. Your articles have been both timely and helpful to the municipal community here in the Maritimes. I hope that you are able to continue contributing to our publication"

The Review - December, 1992 ( Sidney , B.C.)

"Cuff's sweeping summary contains some 64 recommendations covering all aspects of local government. Many detail internal bugs in the system, and problems aldermen and the public encounter when dealing with the organization."

Hamilton Spectator - August 8, 1992 (Township of West Lincoln, Ont,)

"Mayor Packham refused to comment directly on the dismissals and instead issued a carefully worded statement in which she says: "Over time and through attrition, the Township should be able to reduce our total staff by about three or four management and non-supervisory positions at a net cost saving of about $200,000."

Alberta Municipal Affairs - August 7, 1992

"I want to express my appreciation for your work in organizing the round table discussion on municipal issues. I found the session informative and in particular I found your summary and overview comments to be useful." J. Davis, Deputy Minister

West Lincoln Review - July 29,1992 ( Township of West Lincoln , Ont.)

"In a press release, Mrs. Packham said the Corporate Review "points out several needed changes both in terms of how Council operated and how the staff conduct their jobs."

"The Report also recommends that a review of our indoor office space needs should be conducted given that our municipal office is totally inadequate," Mrs. Packham said.

Amherst - March 22, 1992

"The department is expected to undergo a number of significant administrative changes as a result of a review of the police force by municipal government consultant George Cuff."

And while some taxpayers may consider that a relatively large expenditure, Cuff's interim reports and recommendations on the police department and the administration of the Town - both extensive - would indicate that the results produced are well worth the final costs.

It seems to sit well with Amherst Mayor Walter Purdy:."I am happy with the report, "he said when asked for a reaction at a news conference Wednesday. "I think a good part of the report will be implemented."

The Herald - March 19, 1992 ( Coaldale , AB )

"It's obviously a document for the future. This Council doesn't want to dwell on Council and management from the past because those of the past did a good job, but Coaldale has grown and these are times of change"

This report is a blueprint of how we will make decisions in the future, not a reflection on previous practices."

The Herald - March 13, 1992 ( Coaldale , AB )

"No stone was left unturned in the report from the lack of a budgetary process to the inadequacies of agendas provided for meetings.

Cuff also tackled administration for having personnel policies which are disjointed at best and at worst don't exist. "Training is being done already on an ad hoc basis," he suggested."

The Standard - February 6, 1992 (St. Catherines)

"Niagara Region is cutting 18 jobs from its public works department to save $800,000 a year in salaries in what is being called a "sweeping reorganization."

The department restructuring, announced late yesterday afternoon at a hastily organized new conference, is part of the five per cent reduction in the Region's workforce promised by regional politicians last February."

Welland - November 1, 1991

"A report of a consulting firm to have the number of committees of Council from six to three ailing with streamlining local government was approved by Council last night."

The Standard - May 30, 1991

"George Cuff has done what a lot of Niagara residents would like to do - he has shaken up the region and taken on the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake .

Troubled municipalities hire the 43 year old Edmonton man to examine their office and make suggestions on how to smooth out operations"

Peace River Regional District - March 19, 1991

"We have received some very positive comments from our member municipalities, and our own rural directors are very enthusiastic about implementing goals and objectives proposed during the Seminar." Chairman, Peace River Regional District

Niagara Guardian - November 20, 1990

"What a difference a meeting makes. Last week, with consultant George Cuff in attendance taking notes, members of Council zipped through their Council meeting in record-breaking time. Mr. Cuff you may recall is the man hired by the Town to investigate how business gets done (or not) at the municipal offices. The meeting, with only one member absent, and two deputation's made, took a scant 55 minutes to complete.

Issues were addressed in a quick, efficient fashion. Comments were made at times during discussions to particular motions but speeches were not. Missing were the long soliloquies of Shakespearean proportions so familiar with the troupe. It truly was an amazing if not beautiful sight."

Niagara Advance - October 31, 1990

"George B. Cuff, the consultant hired by the Town to conduct its corporate review, prefers the job description "mechanic" or "doctor" to that of "axeman".

"In terms of this particular study, a) I don't know what I am going to recommend b) I don't know whether it involves actual hiring or firing of staff," Mr. Cuff said.

Mr. Cuff explained he has an open mind when he undertakes a study, going in without any preconceived ideas. "Obviously, I have to provide good advice... As a consultant you are as good as your last report."

The Standard - Niagara , 1990

"The changes will fix (the Region's problems) to the degree that people are committed to them. A special committee of Council spent the last five months studying the report by consultant George Cuff of Edmonton before making recommendations on what parts Council should approve. Most of the consultant's major findings were adopted."

Westmount - May 10,1990

"Someone once told us that there was no point paying someone to give you advice unless you are prepared to heed what they eventually have to say. Such is the position in which Westmount City Council has put itself in engaging of consultant George B. Cuff of Alberta to tell them what is best for the City of Westmount . In doing so, they have acknowledged that the city management itself is incapable of doing that basic long-range planning and that they have little other option than to do what the man from Alberta says. In thus may develop that this outsider will do what years of efforts by many residents and this newspaper have been unable to do: open up the business of running Westmount to tax-paying public."

I came in (to office) to change the City, to tighten up, to clean out the deadwood", Cutler said when reached at her Mayor's office in Westmount . "No one knows as much about cities and how they should run as he (Cuff). Anything you want to know, he'll find out for you".

Cutler said his value as an independent evaluator is the "he makes the city take action."

Westmount - January 31, 1990

"Occasionally we need someone like Mr. Cuff to come in and evaluate how we are doing. A lot of what he has to say falls in with what we've been thinking ourselves. Mr. Cuff has been a beneficial influence. He really gets the juices flowing". ( Westmount director-general)

Mr. Patenaude said he views the recommendations contained in the preliminary report as "very positive" and said Mr. Cuff's presence has initiated good discussions between personnel adding than even if Mr. Cuff's involvement were to go no further, his review has stimulated interest and created a willingness to try new approaches to old problems and respond to new problems with innovation and imagination."

Coast News -October 23, 1989 (Sechelt, B.C.)

"When you get the best doctor, you take his prescription", District of Sechelt Mayor Tim Meredith told the Coast News last week. He was referring to the recently completed "Summary of Recommendations" from Management Consultant's, George B, Cuff & Associates Ltd. which was made public on October 12. The document is Sechelt's long-awaited corporate review."

"Cuff has done a first class job", Meredith said. "We intend to put the bulk of the recommendations into practice. They make a lot of sense."

Sackville,N.B.

"Cuff said that there appears to be some major personality issues aggravated by family relationships, poor communication, a lack of team work and a crying need for increased trust at all levels. He announced during the news conference that his final report, covering a variety of areas, consists of 40 pages and includes 22 recommendations. He said the report is in the hands of Council who may wish to release it later."

Western Report - May 22, 1989 ( Selkirk , Man. )

"The major concern raised by the Cuff report is in the area of administrative staffing. A recommendation that the present secretary-treasurer's position be replaced by a chief executive officer should be implemented as soon as possible, the report said.

Cuff said the Council is spending too much time making administrative decisions rather than governing. Mayor Bud Oliver said he hopes Council will use the report as the "blueprint into the year 2000." "Cities need teamwork, not adversity. But for people to work together, they have to appreciate each other's responsibilities at City Hall."

Canadian Urban Transit Association - March 22, 1988

"Our annual General Managers' Seminar held in Mississauga was our most successful to date. Its success was in no small part due to your thoughtful and timely presentation. I am confident our General Managers returned to their respective communities better equipped to carry out their responsibilities."

The Northern Light - February 24, 1988 ( Bathurst , N.B.)

"As was hoped, the Cuff Report appears to have had a calming effect on the stormy waters of Bathurst City Council. The Spectator's gallery was crowded for the February 15th meeting, but anyone there who expected to witness another rocky session had to be disappointed. The two-hour meeting was orderly, with a notable absence of tension, name calling and harsh exchanges.

This time, though, the advice was not free - it cost $20,000 and Council had better follow recommendations. It'll be a tough pill for some Councillors to swallow, and a welcome relief for others, but it's a $20,000 pill citizens should not let Council disgorge, no matter how tough the task. The report is, for the most part common sense. George Cuff is the first to admit that. "If someone says the report is common sense, that's the best compliment they could pay me... there's no such thing as common sense. It it were common, everybody would have some..."

Medicine Hat - December 12, 1984

"All in all, the report clearly shows that the City Council still has much to learn about the management of personnel, but it also gives the Mayor and his colleagues tools with which to hone their skills."

Alberta Advanced Education - March, 1984

"I wish to extend to you my sincere appreciation and that of my staff for the excellent learning experience you provided for the Further Education coordinator group.

From the evaluation comments, I can report that the program accomplished all that we intended it to do. Some coordinators were over challenged, perhaps, and let us know; however, the overwhelming tone was indeed positive."

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