Council Manager Form of Government

On April 4, 1987 Southlake voters approved home rule charter which established a Council/Manager form of government. The Council/Manager form of government combines the strong political leadership of elected officials and the strong professional experience of a City Manager.

The Mayor and City Council establish policy and law while 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. Below is a brief breakdown of Mayor, Council, and City Manager responsibilities.

Mayor Accountability

  • Presides at its meetings and votes
  • Head of government for ceremonial purposes
  • No administrative duties
  • Spokesperson for the city
  • Facilitates communication

Council Accountability

  • Determine "purpose," scope of services, tax levels, 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

  • 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.