The heat of liberal and conservative politics usually runs cooler in small towns unless of course somebody stirs the water. Other issues may generate heat but generally speaking local folks know that they must learn to work together , which means reaching some compromises along the way.
What usually happens is a lack of vision and not considering all the possibilities. Also many counsil members may not be aware of resources from the state and the federal government. Occasionally a council member thinks that he has been elected to hold down taxes rather than lead to a new level of community service. At any rate making progress and preparing for the future is never easy nor simple.
Have a vision for your town? Jump in here and share it with us; it may be something we can all use.