City of Progress – III Ethics Moment June 2007

Steve, the city manager who announced he would become a woman in the City of Progress and was promptly put on administrative leave by a 5-2 vote of the city commission, requested a formal public hearing to hold on to his job. He believed he could educate and convince city commissioners (or at least three since five of the seven would have to vote in favor of the motion to terminate him) that he could serve the city just as well as a woman as he could as a man. Alas, he failed as the city commission voted 5-2 to end his employment contract. “Officials bow to mob, prejudice . . . the community and most elected officials turned on the city manager and kicked him to the curb” said the lead editorial of the local newspaper.

But . . . what if he succeeded in persuading three commissioners to support him? Let’s imagine.

Steve now Susan reports to work dressed in female clothing complemented by feminine styling and makeup even though he has not completed gender reassignment. His first days on the job evoke some stares, some evasiveness, and some smirks by city employees, all politely ignored by Susan. But as days pass, city employees appear to adjust. Susan is no longer the physical oddity in their midst.

Nonetheless, Susan recognizes that he has a leadership challenge.

Questions:

1. What should Susan do to alleviate the anxiety still felt by some rank-and-file city employees about their “new” boss? For example, from a practical perspective, should Susan use the men’s or women’s bathroom? Neither?

2. What should Susan do to ensure that the management team stays a team?

3. What should Susan do about the four commissioners who voted to dismiss him?

4. What should Susan do to persuade a doubting community about his commitment to the well being of the city?

5. What leadership style or approach should Susan assume toward city employees? His management team? The community?

6. Is it hypocritical to believe that Susan can lead with integrity? Why or why not?

Source: Based on a real case, see St. Petersburg Times, March 24, 2007.