City Council

The Brook Park City Council is a dedicated group of community leaders committed to the effective governance and vibrant civic life of our city. At the helm, the council president, with several decades of service, exemplifies our long-term dedication to local governance.

Meetings & Participation

City Council meetings, which are open to the public, occur weekly, with additional special meetings convened as needed. Emphasizing our commitment to transparency, these sessions are streamed online for broader accessibility, though we strive to overcome occasional technical glitches. Residents are encouraged to engage during meetings, reflecting our belief in an inclusive decision-making process.

Legislative & Executive Interplay

Acting as the city's executive committee, the council collaborates closely with the mayor, who prepares the city's budget with the finance director. The council exercises its authority to amend and approve the budget, ensuring that our city's finances reflect our community's priorities.

Council Composition & Functions

Our council is composed of seven voting members, including four ward representatives and three at-large members, with the council president voting in case of a tie. This structure ensures that all residents have a significant voice in electing the majority of the council, promoting comprehensive representation.

Accessibility & Inclusivity

A user-friendly website is pivotal for easy navigation and access to essential information. The council's agenda is now posted online, as mandated by state law, to facilitate transparency. Still, we maintain physical postings in communal places like the library, ensuring inclusivity for all residents.

Meeting Structure & Agenda

Regular meetings are held twice a month with an additional caucus meeting, where a structured procedure is followed, starting with the Pledge of Allegiance and a roll call. The council operates as a "Committee of the Whole," with committee chairpersons leading their segments. For a measure to be enacted swiftly, it requires a 6 to 1 vote, while others are deliberated over three separate meetings, allowing ample time for public input and reflection.

Elections & Governance

Council members serve two-year terms, with mayoral terms lasting four years. The process for running for council is transparent, with election petitions available for interested residents. The council president not only oversees the running of the office and approves agendas but also stands next in line for mayoral duties if necessary.

Community Engagement

Deeply interwoven with our city's fabric is the strong community involvement in local sports and recreational activities. From coaching baseball and football to celebrating youth sports achievements, the council's engagement with community programs reflects our commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for our youth.

Celebrating Community

Our city takes pride in its achievements, whether it's a local sports team winning a championship or the innovative coaching techniques employed to develop young talent. These accomplishments are celebrated as they exemplify the strong community spirit that defines Brook Park.