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 structure 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 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


Contact Us

  1. City of Southlake

    Main Switchboard*

    (817) 748-8400

    1400 Main Street

    Southlake, Texas 76092

    *Answers for all City of Southlake departments and divisions through out the City. For Tarrant County services, call 817-884-1111.