Which two cities officially adopted the council manager form of government and in what years?

The council-manager form of government is a system where the elected council holds the legislative power while the manager, appointed by the council, handles the administrative functions. Understanding the timeline of cities adopting this governance structure is important for grasping how municipal governance has evolved in the United States.

In this context, Sumpter, South Carolina, officially adopted the council-manager form of government in 1912, which reflects a significant shift in local governance aimed at promoting efficiency and accountability. This choice underscores a broader movement during the early 20th century when many cities began to rethink their governance structures in response to the challenges of rapid urbanization and the complexities of municipal administration.

The second city mentioned in the correct answer is Dayton, Ohio, which adopted the council-manager form in 1914. This period was marked by a growing interest in reforming local government to reduce corruption and enhance public services, which the council-manager system sought to address effectively.

Both Sumpter and Dayton's adoption of the council-manager system during this time illustrates a pivotal moment in American municipal history, where efficiency and professional management became prioritized, thereby shaping how local governments operate to this day.