What are the key challenges facing a local authority which is looking to improve customer service?

Answer 1

How to deliver 'value for money' without the normal incentives and imperatives of a commercial operation ...

How to avoid the tendancy to be 'politically correct' at the expense of the Council Tax payers

How to deliver the Tax Payer's requirements rather than their own employees 'needs' or own (or central government's) 'political beliefs' ..

Answer 2

Stop bribery and corruption of councillors and senior staff. Sack all the idiots. My local authority made the social housing an ALMO Arms Length Management Organisation. it seems to work well - they have all new vans and staff check the work has been done. But the £300,000,000 government grant may have helped! The Highways department are putting humps and ramps everywhere - the boss can't even drive. He rides a bike! Then the stupid cycle lanes - no one uses. Then thing in the middle of the road to help disabled people cross - they don't use them. The traffic lights are going up everywhere. Even replacing zebra crossings.
Then there is their masterpiece - a £60 million arts centre to attract tourism. Meanwhile, they are talking about a congestion charge! Brilliant attract tourists, charge them to come in - fine them if they do 31 mph through a speed camera - we have lots! Improve customer service by getting rid of anyone who can't speak good English and those silly little girls - who look nice - but don't know ****.