State and local governments face unprecedented challenges. Nearly 70 percent of public sector employees are knowledge workers, and more than one-third of state and local government workers are over 50 years old. The possible "brain drain" as these workers retire will be a toll on local governments striving to meet the publics" needs in this increasingly complex world of growing environmental concerns, heightened public safety, diverse demographics, and more. This completely updated and revised edition tackles today"s complex human resource issues, and provides best practices and insight on addressing long-term workforce needs, recruiting and maintaining a high-performance team, and creating an environment where excellence thrives. Truly an "essential guide," this book provides the most thought-provoking and comprehensive coverage of human resource management issues in local governments. There"s never been a more critical time to understand the rapidly changing field of human resources.