City fathers is a term used to describe the people who hold significant power in the city and make important decisions for the residents. However, the term is often considered outdated and doesn't reflect the diversity of individuals who hold such positions. Some modern alternatives to city fathers include city council members, city officials, city administrators, and city government representatives. These terms recognize the involvement of women, minorities, and different religious and ethnic groups in leadership roles. Other possibilities include urban planners, city managers, and municipal officers. Ultimately, the most important quality of anyone in a position of power is their commitment to promoting the welfare of all residents of the city.