The City of Abilene operates under the council-manager form of government. Under this system, with approval of the City Council, the Mayor appoints a City Manager who acts as the chief executive officer of the government.
Functions
In the chief executive capacity, the City Manager works with the City Council, department directors, and staff to develop and implement policies guiding the City. This general function may take a number of forms including:
- Actions as required by the Mayor and City Council or Code of Ordinances
- Coordination of daily operations and long-range development of the City
- Development and implementation of personnel regulations, financial and administrative policies
- Preparation of the annual budget
Hiring Functions
The City Attorney, Municipal Court Judge, and City Secretary are also appointed by the Mayor with approval of the Council. All other officials and department heads are hired by and responsible to the City Manager.
Staff
The City Manager's office staff includes a deputy city manager, an assistant city managers, an executive secretary, and a communications and media relations manager.