WHAT IS A COUNCILMAN? AND WHAT THEY DO FOR YOU!
A town or city council is an elected statutory body and is the most local level of government. It serves an important role is promoting the town, representing it's interests and supporting the work of different groups in the community.
JOB DESCRIPTION
authority to pass municipal ordinances and budgets
Make appropriations
In many cases, even set local tax rates
RESPONSIBILITIES
Duties are to be performed, almost without exception, by the council as a whole
Supervise administrative officers.
Formulate policies
Exercise city powers
Speak for the local constitutes
HOW ARE THEY ELECTED
individuals are elected into single member districts by the people within the district. The city or town is divided geographically.
All citizens may vote in each city council member race when council members are elected at large.
WHAT HAPPENS IN A CITY COUNCIL MEETING?
POLICY: A COURSE OF ACTION FOR A COMMUNITY
policy making
Passing ordinances or resolutions
Local level issues are discussed and solutions are formed
After policy decisions are made by the legislative body or city council, the Mayor has the administrative task of implementing the policies.
TERMS
THIS IS THE MOST LOCAL LEVEL OF THE PAID GOVERNMENT BRANCHES. Because of this, every single vote counts! They work for YOU each and every day - SR example of Sandra winning by 3 votes!
The Mayor and City or town council members serve 4 year terms, the terms of office are staggered, with 2 council members and the mayor seat filled during one election, and the remaining council seats filled during another election, 2 years later
Depends on the township -
Ex. South River is 3 year terms for council, but the mayor is 4 years. We also have a lame duck mayor meaning the 6 council members are the voting body and the mayor doesn’t cast their vote unless it is to break a tie (like the VP as President of the Senate)