The First Step is Recognition

The first step in recovery is recognizing that a real problem exists. Someone in a position of authority must:

• Recognize the problem.
• Gain a substantive understanding of it.
• Start developing countering strategies.
• Enlist the aid of others.

This person is the “recovery leader.” The leader could be a city manager, finance director, mayor, or hold a comparable position. Ultimately, the leader should build a team of other able officials to carry out the recovery process so that there is a “recovery leadership,” not just a single leader.