City Council

The mayor and four council members make up Howard Lake's elected City Council.

The mayor serves a two-year term; the council members serve four-year staggered terms. Local elections take place in November of even numbered years. The mayor receives a salary of $7,000 per year; council members are paid $5,000 per year. Each council member receives $75.00 for special meetings.

Council Meetings:

The council meets the third Monday of each month at City Hall, 625 8th Avenue at 7:00 pm. Workshop meetings and budget meetings for the City Council may be scheduled in conjunction with regular council meetings.

City Council Agendas and Minutes are available online.

Live City Council Meetings and Past Meetings - Click Here

Mayor's Role:

As a council member, the mayor's official power is no greater than any other council member, and the office has no veto power. The mayor executes official documents, makes appointments subject to the approval of the council and presides at council meetings. As the official head of the City, the mayor serves as spokesperson for both the government and the community.

Each council member is appointed to committee assignments and as liaison to various city boards or task forces.

City Council Powers and Duties:

• Legislates for the city, passes ordinances, sets administrative policy
• Directs enforcement of ordinances, determines the level of service, purchases equipment for city use 
• Approves the hiring of personnel 
• Manages financial operations by levying taxes, approving budgets, auditing expenditures, borrowing money 
• Guides development in accordance with the comprehensive land use plan 
• Appoints persons to administrative advisory boards and commissions 
• Conducts city inter-governmental affairs 
• Protects the long-range welfare of the city and its residents.
• Goal Setting