About the City Council
The City of Lancaster adopted a Home Rule City Charter in 1956. Pursuant to the Charter, the City Council is comprised of 6 single-member districts and a mayor elected at-large. All members serve 3-year staggered terms. Visit the Members page to view current council members. 

Responsibilities
The City Council’s responsibilities include:

• Adoption of the annual tax rate, water and sewer rates, annual operating budget, and regulatory ordinances
• Approval of contracts and agreements
• Review and approval of the council’s rules of procedure
• Pass ordinances and resolutions

Officials & Appointments
The City Council appoints the municipal judge, city attorney, and  the city secretary. The council also makes appointments to a number of standing boards, commissions, committees, and ad hoc committees as it deems necessary or as state law mandates. Members of such boards, commissions, and committees serve in an advisory capacity to the City Council or carry out functions of government as provided by law.
 
As provided by the City Charter, the City Council appoints a professional city manager who is responsible for carrying out the policies set by the council and for the effective administration of all departments. The city manager is also charged with the enforcement of all laws and ordinances of the city.