1. Slide Deck: Municipalities

2. How do municipal governments influence communities?
What is the most pressing issue in my community and what actions can be taken to address it?

3. Local Governments in Manitoba
Municipl governments consist of municipalities and may be named a city, town or village.
Provide essential local services such as public transit, libraries, parks and recreation, policing and fire protection.
Responsible for the planning, growth and well-being of their community through legislation, by-laws and policies.

4. Municipalities
Manitoba is separated into 37 urban municipalities (10 cities, 25 towns and 2 villages).
A rural municipality is an incorporated area with at least residents and a population density of less than 400 residents per square kilometre.
A local urban district is located within a rural municipality that has at least 250 residents and a population density of at least 400 residents per square kilometre.

5. What is the role of municipalities?
Providing for good government of its community;
Providing for services, laws and other matters for community benefit;
Providing for stewardship of the public assets of its community; and
Fostering the economic, social and environmental well- being of its community.

6. Municipal councils
Municipal councils are democratically elected bodies that make decisions on behalf of the municipality, and are accountable for those decisions.
Comprised of a head of council called a mayor and several councillors, collectively called council members.
The number of councillors ranges from 4 to 10, depending on population.

7. A municipal council makes decisions collectively, meaning that it is not individual council members that make decisions, but rather the council as a whole. Decisions are taken by a vote and only move forward if they receive majority of support (>50%).

8. Key Functions of Council
Passing by-laws (rules and policies for the community)
Budget planning and approval
Committee, board and commission appointments
General oversight of municipal administration (departments, services and programs)
Bringing forward issues and concerns of community members for discussion

9. Local Urban District Committee
Each local urban district committee is comprised of not more than three members elected by electors at a general municipal election, and a member of its respective rural municipal council.

10. A municipal council makes decisions collectively, meaning that it is not individual council members but rather the council as a whole, based on a majority vote, that decides and acts for the municipality.

11. Final Thoughts
What would you change or improve about your municipality/community and why?
What actions could your municipal government take to address an issue you identified? How can citizens contribute?
Why is it important to be an active and engaged member of the community?