Running a city takes teamwork – and in Margaret, that team begins with the Mayor and City Council. Each plays a distinct but connected role in ensuring your local government operates effectively, transparently, and responsibly.

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The Mayor: Chief Executive and Community Leader

Under Alabama law, the Mayor serves as the chief executive officer of the city. That means the Mayor’s job is to oversee daily operations and ensure that the policies and priorities set by the City Council are carried out effectively.

The Mayor:

• Supervises all city departments and employees.
• Prepares and proposes the annual city budget.
• Signs contracts, ordinances, and resolutions once approved by Council.
• Represents the city in official and ceremonial functions.
• Ensures that city services – such as public safety, infrastructure, and utilities – run efficiently and responsibly.
• Works with the Council and the public to set the long-term vision for Margaret’s future.

In towns and smaller cities (under 12,000 residents), the Mayor also presides over Council meetings and may vote when necessary, including to break a tie.

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The City Council: Your Local Legislature and Financial Authority

The Council acts as the policy-making and legislative branch of the city – much like Congress does at the federal level. Councilmembers are elected by residents to represent the community’s interests and to serve as the fiscal and policy balance to the Mayor’s executive authority.

The Council:

• Adopts the city’s annual budget and authorizes spending.
• Reviews and approves all major contracts and financial commitments.
• Passes ordinances (local laws) and resolutions that set city policy.
• Oversees land use, zoning, and infrastructure planning.
• Provides checks and balances by monitoring the city’s financial health and holding departments accountable.
• Serves as a direct link between residents and their government.

All major decisions about city finances, land use, and public policy go through the Council – giving residents a direct and transparent voice in how tax dollars are managed and spent.

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A Local System of Checks and Balances

Just like the President and Congress at the national level, the Mayor and Council are designed to balance each other’s powers.

• The Mayor proposes, executes, and manages.
• The Council reviews, approves, and oversees.

This balance ensures accountability – that no one branch of city government acts alone, and that public funds and decisions remain in the hands of representatives elected by the people.

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Working with a Common Purpose

While the Mayor manages daily operations, the Council provides direction, oversight, and accountability. Together, they share responsibility for:

• Promoting transparency in decision-making.
• Maintaining fiscal stability and balanced budgets.
• Prioritizing public safety, infrastructure, and quality of life.
• Listening to and serving the citizens of Margaret.

This partnership keeps Margaret’s government efficient, responsive, and accountable to the people it serves.

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Your Role as a Citizen

Good government starts with informed residents. Attending Council meetings, sharing feedback, and staying connected with city updates help keep our local democracy strong. Every ordinance, budget, and community improvement project begins with your voice.

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In short:
➡ The Mayor leads and manages daily operations.
➡ The Council legislates, oversees, and controls the city’s finances.
➡ Citizens hold the power to shape both through participation.

Together, they form a balanced and transparent government – one that works for Margaret and its future.