Role of the Mayor

The importance and role of the Mayor today
The history of the Mayoralty is important because it is the one well known and continuous factor in people’s experiences. The power of the Mayor has undoubtedly reduced throughout the centuries but the office continues to have a central part to play in modern Councils and modern society and part of this role is as a result of the tradition it inherits.

It can be suggested that three main important roles for the Mayor in today’s local authorities and society are

As a symbol of the authority: The Mayor can clearly be seen as a symbol of the Authority and its area, with the insignia of the mace, robes, and chains of office. The Mayor, through the office of Mayor connects the present day with history and acts as a symbol of continuity.

As a symbol of an open society: A modern role for the Mayor is that the office symbolises as open society. Prior to the twentieth century, the choice of Mayor was, in reality, very restricted but today the First Citizen can (and does) come from any class, gender or ethnic background. This new diversity reflects the more open and democratic society we now live in.

As an expression of social cohesion: The many, often social, engagements that are undertaken by a Mayor are an expression of giving cohesion to the life of the Town. The Mayor can act as a link between the various bodies, organisations, etc. he/she visits and can feed back the views and concerns of the people into the Council. Similarly, the Mayor can also take the Council’s message and themes out into the community and work towards achieving the Council’s social, community, educational and economic aims.

The Mayor has two distinct roles:

Civic role
The Mayor is the first citizen of the Town. Within the Town, he or she has precedence over all but members of the Royal Family and the Queen’s deputy, the Lord Lieutenant. In her or his Civic Role the Mayor meets with individuals and communities to honour them for their contribution to the life of the town, and to promote civic pride. The Mayor is also a member or patron, ex officio, of a number of organisations. The role of Mayor is distinct from that of Councillor and the Mayor acts in a non-political manner when carrying out the civic role. The Deputy Mayor is appointed by the Mayor and will attend functions when the Mayor is unable to do so.

Chair of Council
The Mayor’s other role is to chair meetings of the Council so:
that its business can be carried out efficiently and with regard to the rights of Councillors and the interests of the community;

To uphold and promote the purposes of the Constitution, and to interpret the Constitution when necessary;

To ensure that the Council meeting is a forum for the debate of matters of concern to the local community and the place at which Councillors are able to hold the Committee Chairman to account.

If the Mayor is present at the meeting he or she must preside. If the Mayor is not present, then the Deputy Mayor can preside if chosen to do so by the Meeting.

It is the duty of the Mayor to ensure that Council meetings are conducted in a seemly manner and in accordance with the Local Government Act, 1972, and Council Standing Orders. In the cases of disorderly or unruly behaviour by the public it is in order for the Mayor to require the perpetrators be removed. In extreme cases an order can be made to adjourn the meeting while the public gallery is cleared.

It is in the power of the Mayor to call a Special Meeting of the Council at any time, subject to prior notice being given. The Mayor may also alter the time and place of a scheduled Council meeting, in consultation after consultation with the Town Clerk, for reasons of urgency or other circumstances, again, provided notice is given.

Special privileges accorded to the Mayor, include:

Provision for a second, or casting vote in the event of an equality of votes on any question before the meeting. The Mayor makes her or his initial vote and in the case of equality may then use the casting vote;

Precedence of the Mayor (or person presiding) whereby when the Mayor rises during a debate any Member standing shall resume her or his seat and the Council shall be silent.

Civic Ceremonies
There are certain events which have a Town-wide significance and incorporate ceremonial aspects. These events are co-ordinated by the Mayor’s Assistant.