The positives of working in the public sector
Pros
Every day I see examples of how we go above and beyond to help people who really need it. There's a lot of prode in the work we do, and some real excitement about some of the large scale investment projects we're starting. It's also amazing the huge range of professions within local government, and the job satisfaction you get from working for the public rather than for a profit-driven company. There are specific benefits for the employee too, flexi-time and flexible working policies which allow you to achieve a real work-life balance.
Cons
There is always the public perception that Council's waste money, and you have to get used to dealing with being an easy target to blame for national policies or an economic situation you have no control over.