The bill amends the Municipal Code to clarify the governance structure for municipalities operating under a mayor-council system. It establishes procedures for filling vacancies in the mayor's office and on the governing body, while also detailing the mayor's role as the presiding officer and outlining limitations on their voting rights, particularly in tie situations. The bill codifies the mayor's authority to enforce municipal ordinances and supervise employees, while explicitly stating that neither the mayor nor the governing body has jurisdiction over judicial branch matters. Significant changes include the removal of the requirement for special elections to occur within ninety days of an ordinance change regarding the governing body’s membership and the introduction of conflict of interest recusal procedures.

Additionally, the bill modifies the election process for changing the number of governing body members, allowing such changes to be voted on at the next available election rather than within a specified timeframe. It ensures that if a majority approves the change, current members will serve until their terms expire, with new members elected over the next two regular elections. The governing body is granted new powers, including the ability to adopt its own rules of proceedings, remit fines for ordinance violations, and compel attendance of absent members. The bill also updates the language regarding the appointment of a manager, emphasizing their responsibility for the efficient administration of municipal government.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 3-11-1, 3-11-2, 3-11-3, 3-11-4, 3-11-5, 3-11-6, 3-11-7, 3-12-1, 3-12-2, 3-12-2.1, 3-12-3, 3-14-12