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LMC LEAGUE of MINNESOTA CITIES INFORMATION MEMO Role with It: Individual Versus Council Authority Learn common ways councilmembers may overstep their proper role and the personal liability that may ensue. Understand your role as an individual councilmember versus your role as part of the entire city council. RELEVANT LINKS: See Handbook, Elected Officials and Council Structure and Role, Section 11-A, Role of the Individual Councilmember and Section II-B, The Council's Authority. I. Role of an individual elected official The cornerstone of city government in Minnesota is the elected city council. The city council passes ordinances and adopts policies that determine a community's present and future well-being. Councilmembers and mayors perfonn their statutory duties, almost without exception, as a member of a council as a whole. The entire council, not individual councilmembers, supervise administrative officers, formulate policies, enter into contracts and exercise city powers. Indeed, preparing for and attending meetings and voting on policy represent the key duties of elected officials. For statutory cities, Minnesota's statutes specifically list out council duties, which include full authority to make and second motions, participate in discussions, and vote on the matters before council. II. Tips for meetings It is not uncommon for elected officials to struggle with the transition from an individual candidate to a member of a decision -making body. The following basic tips for meetings can ease that transition: • Read the packet before the meeting and share any possible questions or concerns with staff ahead of time. • Be mindful that staff work for the city and act on the direction of the council as a whole, not at the discretion of individual councilmembers or the mayor. • Arrive to meetings on time. • Learn and use the city's rules of process to help ensure clear communication in meetings. • Proactively learn how to get things on the agenda. • Approach every agenda item with the belief that everyone has something to contribute and likely has information that you do not have. Listen to others and be curious about their perspective. • Avoid making assumptions, choosing instead to listen with a true This material is provided as general information and is not a substitute for legal advice. Consult your attorney for advice concerning specific situations. 145 University Ave. West Saint Paul, MN 55103-2044 www.lmc.org (651) 281-1200 or (800) 925-1122 4/14/2020 © 2020 All Rights Reserved