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Strong‑mayor powers, budget duties explained to James Island council
Summary
Presenter outlined differences among municipal government forms and explained that in a mayor–council 'strong mayor' system the mayor has statutory administrative responsibility, prepares the budget, and oversees day‑to‑day operations while council retains legislative authority.
At the James Island orientation, the Municipal Association presenter reviewed the three forms of municipal government authorized under state law and explained the practical differences the council will encounter. Fragoso said the mayor–council form—commonly called a 'strong mayor' system—gives the mayor statutory administrative authority over town operations while the council remains the policy‑setting legislative body.
"The policy responsibility, the legislative responsibility ... will always Council" Fragoso said, adding that the mayor is also responsible for preparing the annual budget and supervising department heads when administrative authority is vested in the mayor. She advised members to consult the town’s code of ordinances for any locally specified mayoral powers.
