A city charter is far more than a legal document—it is the framework that shapes authority, decision-making, accountability, and the working relationships that determine whether a city government functions effectively or becomes mired in conflict. Many governance breakdowns occur not because city officials intentionally violate the charter, but because elected officials and staff have never fully studied or clearly understood how its provisions influence real-world leadership and organizational culture. This class examines the practical realities of municipal charters in Georgia cities and explores how charter provisions can either support effective governance or contribute to dysfunction when misunderstood, ignored, or improperly applied during periods of conflict. The class emphasizes practical governance strategies that help elected officials understand how charters shape everyday decision-making and organizational culture. The class will also include discussion of when and how communities should consider amending their charter when provisions become outdated, ineffective, unclear, or fail to address emerging governance realities. Participants will gain a practical understanding of the charter amendment process in Georgia and the importance of periodically evaluating whether their governing framework still supports effective local leadership.