According to the city code:
"The legislative powers of the City are exclusively vested in the Council. The Council has the power to conduct investigations concerning any subject on which it may legislate, or the operation of a department, board or commission engaged in administrative affairs of the City."
In practice, this means we:
- make recommendations to the State Liquor Commission regarding the approval of liquor licenses for bars and restaurants
- approve appointments to local Commissions and Boards
- oversee land use and zoning changes
- approve redevelopment agreements and authorize the issuance of financing bonds
- develop and pass the City budget
- create and revise the city code with the power to put certain things to a vote of the people - e.g. public safety ballot initiative
- set fees, rates, and levy taxes
- authorize the Mayor to execute contracts (e.g. with the State to accept federal funding for road construction and repair)
- vote on claims made against the city
- provide a forum for citizens to speak on issues on our Agenda or of importance to them