Your Government

Mayor's Office

The Mayor is elected every two years (on the odd-numbered years) and is responsible for all executive decision making. All City departments report to the Mayor who also appoints all members of the boards and commissions.
 

City Council

The City Council is the City's legislative branch. Members are elected every two years (on the odd-numbered years.) Four members serve at-large. Seven members represent individual wards. The Council passes ordinances about a broad range of issues, from setting zoning laws to creating boards and commissions. The Council also has the authority to cut funds from the budget presented yearly by the Mayor.
 

School Committee

The School Committee oversees the city's school system, working with Superintendent to set broad policies and developing a recommended budget for submission to the Mayor. The Committee is composed of seven members elected by ward every two years (on the odd-numbered years.). The Mayor and the President of the City Council are ex-officio members with full voting rights.
 

Boards and Commissions

Boards and commissions exist to advise or, in some cases, rule on important City business. Members are appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council.
 

City Departments

Day-to-day City operations are managed by a number of departments, each with a director or commissioner reporting to the Mayor.
 

Meeting Agendas and Minutes

Agendas and minutes for public meetings held by the City's various departments, boards, and commissions can be found here.