There are several answers to the question 'What does a city manager expect?' The first is to act as a manager first and a 'cop' second. Second, the city manager wants to be sure that the philosophical tone of the police department is established, i.e. responsiveness, accountability, and community relations. Third, there should be good preparation and backup for the budget, thus addressing the specific needs of the department, with adequate research and objectives. Fourth, the media should be approached openly by the department. Fifth, a police chief should be part of the labor relations negotiating process and should establish good, continuous, ongoing relationships with unions. Sixth, a police chief should emphasize the importance of timely personnel evaluations, establish a fair but firm disciplinary policy, manage disability requirements appropriately, and handle grievances in a professional manner. Seventh, the police chief and city manager should agree upon the types of information that will be exchanged between them. City managers want to be informed about substantive complaints and how they are resolved, budget problems, personnel problems, significant city council contacts, and organizational development.