The form of government authorized by the City of Siloam Springs is known as the City Administrator form of municipal government. The Mayor, Board of Directors, and District Judge are each elected positions. The other officials are appointed, with Board approval.
The mayor of a city having this type of government is recognized as the head of city government for ceremonial purposes. The mayor serves as Chairman of the Board at regular and special meetings of the Board. Seven members constitute the Board of Directors.
The Board serves as both the legislative and executive body of the city government. A majority of the elected membership of the Board of Directors constitutes a quorum for the transaction of city business. City Board meetings are conducted at City Hall, 400 N. Broadway, on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. Meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. and are always open to the public. Meeting agendas are posted in advance on the city's website.
The City Administrator provides leadership, coordination, control, and accountability of all municipal services and programs. This office handles the day-to-day operations of the city and serves as the liaison between all city departments and the Board of Directors. The City Administrator is present or is represented at all board meetings. The City Attorney provides legal counsel to the city, and as such, may draft resolutions and city ordinances. This attorney also attends all board meetings, works closely with the City Administrator, Mayor and Board members. The City Clerk provides staff support for the City Administrator and Board members, and is responsible for the agenda and records of the proceedings of City Board meetings.
The District Judge is an elected position with a term of office of four years. This individual must be a qualified elector within the geographical area from which the candidate is chosen, and must have practiced law four years prior to assuming the District Judge position. Once elected, the District Judge is a full-time employee of the state.
The city operates 14 departments, each providing residents with all aspects of service including fire and police protection, dependable and affordable utility services including water/sewer/electric/sanitation, amenities such as parks and trails, a public library, animal services, a municipal airport, and various special events throughout the year.
Additional information as well as upcoming events may be viewed on the City's website: www.siloamsprings.com.
General News on 01/28/2015