The council-manager form is the system of local government that combines the strong political leadership of elected officials in the form of a council or other governing body, with the strong managerial experience of an appointed local government manager. The form establishes a representative system where all power is concentrated in the elected council and where the council hires a professionally trained manager to oversee the delivery of public services. Some of the strengths of the council-manager form of government as opposed to a strong mayor form of government include:
All council members have equal rights
Obligations and opportunities
The power is assigned to the council as a whole
The city manager must be responsive in providing day-to-day public services to citizens
Role of Mayor (Chief Elected Official)
Presides over council meetings
Represents the City at official and ceremonial functions
Appoints council members to council committees
Names chairs and co-chairs of committees
Appoints advisory committees
Maintains relationship with other governmental agencies and civic groups
Votes as a member of the City Council
Role of City Council (Legislative body for the City)
Appoint city manager on administrative ability
Approve budget
Determines and approve tax rate
Establish city policy
Legislative body
Focus on community goals such as: land use development, capital improvement plans, capital financing, and strategic planning.
Role of City Manager (Administrator and chief advisor to council)
Appoint and remove employees
Administer local government projects and programs on behalf of the governing body
Enforce laws and ordinances
Make recommendations to the council on general welfare of the city