This publication provides local governments in New York with guidelines and suggestions for three major records management undertakings: (1) writing an ordinance, resolution, or local law to establish a records management program; (2) defining the role of the Records Management Officer in developing, organizing, and directing a records management program; and (3) appointing a Records Advisory Board to assist in establishing and supporting a records management program. A records management program oversees recorded information from its creation to final disposition. Components include systematic disposal of obsolete records, development of filing systems, and microfilming of selected records for efficiency and preservation. Such programs provide a number of advantages to local governments, particularly in cost effectiveness. Ways in which local programs must blend with state requirements are described. (SLD)