ABSTRACT
In the neoliberal context in which communities in the United States find themselves, governance though the mobilization of civil society via its organizations is critical. This chapter presents an overview of governance issues impacting communities, and in particular, the role of civil society. Using the case of Ames, Iowa, it is explained how a civil society organization, or even a coalition of civil society organizations, cannot solve complex local issues. Rather, it requires more partnership, across sectors. Ideas around new local governance reveal innovative ways to use power (partnership) and take decision where the three basic local “social forces” (political–economic–community group; what we would call state, market and civil society) interact positively altogether.
