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CITY OF SOUTH FULTON'S FORM OF GOVERNMENT – COUNCIL/CITY MANAGER
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Based on literature, “the council-manager form of government was created to fight corruption and unethical behavior by fostering professionalism, transparency, responsiveness, accountability and is one of five forms.” “To the greatest extent possible, council-manager cities separate the political nature of law and policy making with the apolitical nature of implementation.” This form of government is in cities large and small in the United States and other countries.
City of South Fulton Roles
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The Mayor’s role is to preside at council meetings, to act as head of the city for ceremonial purposes, represent the city on state, national and international levels, does not make policy decisions but influences policy making, makes recommendations to council, does not vote but only when a council member is absent and can veto legislation.
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City Council makes laws and policy decisions for the city manager and staff to implement, sets millage rate for property taxes and reviews and adopts the city’s budget proposed by the City Manager.
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Legislative Specialist work for the council. They respond to constituent requests for information or action; represent council members at neighborhood meetings; coordinate and monitor the implementation of projects initiated by council members; must be politically astute and sensitive to requests from council members or constituents; research laws and professional literature; and must be able to work a flexible schedule to attend council meeting.
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The City Manager supervises department heads, hires and removes department heads, executes laws and council policies and provides pertinent, information and advice to council.
City of South Fulton Charter
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House Bill 514 to create the City of South Fulton was signed by the Governor on April 29, 2016. On May 1, 2017, the city became operational with the charter created by HB 514. HB514 includes a five year period before a commission is established to review the charter and perhaps enhance it.
In 2020, the General Assembly passed House Bill 1019 and 921 to revise the City of South Fulton’s charter. It did not change the council/manager form of government. It changed the political power and administrative authority of mayor and council. Some of the most significant changes were:
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Any legislation adopted by council can be vetoed.
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The City Attorney’s position and salary does not have to be confirmed by council.
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The council cannot confirm firing the City Attorney.
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Council cannot hold a special or emergency meeting to override a veto.
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City council cannot develop committees and chairpersons for them.
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The City Manager’s position does not have to be confirmed by council.
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Only Attorneys can serve on the Ethics board.
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For your information, each house bill is below, click on them.​
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