1. Mayor-Council System: - Executive power vested in an elected mayor, who appoints key officials. - Legislative power held by a council elected by voters. - Most common system in the United States.
2. Council-Manager System: - Executive power vested in a professional city manager hired by the council. - Council sets policy and oversees the manager's performance. - Designed for efficiency and nonpartisan governance.
3. Commission System: - Power divided among five or more commissioners elected at large. - Each commissioner is responsible for a specific department (e.g., police, public works). - Less common due to potential conflicts and lack of specialized expertise.
4. Representative Town Meeting System: - Direct democracy model where voters gather in a public forum to make decisions. - Common in small towns and New England communities. - Ensures citizen participation but can be inefficient and cumbersome.
5. Town Council System: - Legislative body elected by voters, similar to a city council. - Typically responsible for making policy, passing ordinances, and approving budgets. - May appoint a selectman or city manager to oversee operations.
6. Parish Council System (Louisiana): - Unique system found in Louisiana, where parishes (counties) are governed by elected councils. - Councils have broad authority, including setting budgets and appointing officials.
7. Home Rule Charters: - Allow local governments to adopt their own unique political structures and powers. - Provide flexibility to meet specific community needs but can also lead to fragmentation and political maneuvering.