Forms of City Governments

Starter List 3 similarities between the NC branches of government and the US braches of governments. List 3 differences between the two.

Mayor-Council Form Most common form. Power divided between city legislative and executive branches. Voters elect mayor and council members. Mayor-chief executive council-legislature. Power of mayor differs from city to city. A strong mayor system allows the mayor to propose legislation, prepare budget, and appoint heads of city departments. A weak mayor system allows the mayor to lead city council meeting and vote to break a tie, but the council holds most of the power.

Council-Manager Form 1st used as a way to form corrupt or inefficient mayor council governments. City council is elected by people and acts as the legislative body and hires and appoints a manager. The manager recommends a budget, oversees departments, and reports to the council. Some cities also elect a mayor.

Commission Form Few cities still use this form. Commissioners are elected. Each heads a major department (Fire, Police, health, Finance, public works) and they perform executive duties for their department. They also meet together as a commission with legislative power to make policy and pass ordinances. Usually one commissioner is picked to act as mayor who presides over meetings.