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 Serve as head of government for ceremonial purposes Perform no administrative duties

Serve as spokesperson for the city Facilitate communication

Council Accountability
The City Council's responsibilities include:

Determine purpose, scope of services, tax levels and constitution issues Pass ordinances Approve new projects or programs Ratify budget Make implementing decisions

Handle complaints Oversee administration Suggest management changes to manager Oversee organizational performance through manager's appraisal

City Manager Accountability
The City Manager's responsibilities include:

Advise Analyze conditions and trends Make recommendations Formulate budget Develop service palette

Establish practices and procedures Make decisions for implementing policy Control the human, material and informational resources necessary to support the policy and administrative functions