Form of Government

City Council

History

The City of Aurora originally adopted the Council-Manager form of government in 1969. In 1986 the Mayor-Council form of government was implemented, but in 1994 the City returned to the Council-Manager form of government.

Structure

The City of Aurora operates under the Council-Manager form of government as established in Sections 78.430 to 78.640, RSMo of the Missouri State Statutues. Under the Council-Manager form of government, the City Council acts as Aurora’s legislative and policy-making body.

The five members of the Council are elected at large for three-year terms. On an annual basis, after the first meeting in April after the General Election, the City has a "reorganization" meeting where the City Council selects a Mayor and Chairman Pro Tem (Vice Mayor) for the next year.  From within the Council, one member is elected and recognized as Mayor and one member is elected and recognized as Chairman Pro Tem. The Mayor presides over Council meetings and represents the City in ceremonial functions. The Chairman Pro Tem fills in for the Mayor when the Mayor is absent from meetings.

Staff Appointments

The City Council appoints three staff positions in accordance with Missouri State Statutes.  The City Manager, City Clerk and the City Treasurer are appointed by the City Council.  

Ordinances, Resolutions and Policy

It is the primary duty of the Council to pass all ordinances and other measures conducive to the welfare of the City and to the proper carrying out of the provisions of Sections 78.430 to 78.640, RSMo.

Budget Review and Adoption

One of the most important policy decisions that the Council undertakes is the review and adoption of the annual budget. The budget is a thoroughly researched and detailed plan developed by the City Manager and City Department Heads that represents the priorities and expenditure plan of the City for the upcoming fiscal year.

Through the budget, the City guides its operations to meet the demands and requirements of the community and acheive goals for the betterment of the City and its citizens. 

City Manager

Responsibilities

The City Manager is the administrative official responsible for implementing Council policies. The City Manager:

  • Directs the City work force and assists Department Heads with day-to-day operations as needed
  • Prepares the annual budget for Council consideration and approval
  • Keep the City Council fully advised of the financial condition of the City
  • Recommends to the Council measures deemed necessary to ensure efficent and effective operation of the City
  • Appoints department heads and staff
  • Undertakes a wide range of other task and duties as necessary

Additionally, the City Manager attends all the City Council meetings and advises the Council on the various issues, and provides recommendations as appropriate.