Title
Resolve: That is the sense of the Malden City Council that the following is a role summary for its members:
Body
DUTIES
The Malden City Council's functions, duties and responsibilities are defined in the City Charter, City ordinance, and state law. The Council's authority includes the need to regularly vote on:
* The annual budget (appropriation order), and any expenditures of the general fund which are proposed by the Mayor;
* Changes to city ordinances and zoning;
* Appointments to city offices, boards and commissions; and
* Certain licenses and permits.
The Council has eleven members, with three Councillors At Large and eight Ward Councillors, one from each ward. Ward Councillors focus on the area that is their ward, and Councillors At Large focus on the city as a whole. The City Council President presides over meetings and agendas, appoints Council roles, and becomes acting mayor if the mayor is unable to fulfill their duties.
The Council's operations are supported by the Clerk of Committees. The Council works closely with the City Clerk, who acts as the parliamentarian, and the staff of the Clerk's office to manage the legislative process. The Council receives legal review from the City Solicitor and the Law Department.
Individual Councillors use their own judgement to determine the best way to implement their roles.
Their responsibilities include:
Legislation
* Attend and participate in Council meetings, typically every Tuesday night from September-June;
* Vote on issues before the Council, including orders, ordinances, zoning changes, financial papers, appointments, licenses, resolves and other matters;
* Participate in City Council committees (including chairing committees when appointed), and act as designated Council member of certain Boards and Commissions (when appointed); and
* Research and propose policies and papers for the Council to consider.
Constituent Affairs & Community Engagement
* Respond to and advocate for constituent...
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