Council/Manager Form of Government
Adoption of Council / Manager Government
April 4, 1987, Southlake voters approved home rule charter, which
established a council / manager form of government. This
form of government combines the strong political leadership of elected
officials and the strong professional experience of a City Manager.
Responsibilities
The
Mayor and
City Council establish policy and law. The
City Manager
has responsibility for submitting the annual budget, directing
day-to-day operations, advising the City Council on matters affecting
the city and appointing and removing city personnel.
Mayor Accountability
The Mayor's responsibilities include:
- Preside at its meetings and vote
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Serve as head of government for ceremonial purposes
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Perform no administrative duties
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- Serve as spokesperson for the city
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Facilitate communication
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Council Accountability
The City Council's responsibilities include:
- Determine purpose, scope of services, tax levels and constitution issues
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Pass ordinances
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Approve new projects or programs
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Ratify budget
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Make implementing decisions
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- Handle complaints
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Oversee administration
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Suggest management changes to manager
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Oversee organizational performance through manager's appraisal
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City Manager Accountability
The City Manager's responsibilities include:
- Advise
- Analyze conditions and trends
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Make recommendations
- Formulate budget
- Develop service palette
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- Establish practices and procedures
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Make decisions for implementing policy
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Control the human, material and informational resources necessary to support the policy and administrative functions
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