(RALEIGH) - A national magazine targeting local government is taking issue with the Raleigh City Council's move earlier this year to fire City Manager Russell Allen after 12 years. "Governing Magazine" said it was example of an elected council going too far and not knowing the difference between governing and administering.

City Council Mary Anne Baldwin voted against the dismissal, but says she worried this kind of press may hurt their ability to get a good replacement.

"And I just want to find the best possible person. I think an article like that hurts our chances and I think that through our actions we have to demonstrate that we are not here to micromanage we are here to recruit the best possible person."

Mayor Nancy McFarlane wouldn't say what - if anything - Allen did wrong and she doesn't have to. The city manager serves at the pleasure of the council. Their decision to fire him - mid-contract - was made behind closed doors and is considered a personnel matter.