Consider Being Part of the Council or Do you want to be Mayor?
4/30/2026
For next year, we will have two (2) Council seats and Mayor available. Here is some information you need to know about holding one of these positions and if you are interested in learning more, contact the City Hall at 320-233-6472 or email [email protected]. We will continue to put more information and critical dates to file your interest on our website.
Importance of the City Council & Mayor
Legislative Duties:
Passing ordinances; setting local policy; approving annual budget and tax levy; establishing fees and rates and financial policies
Administrative Oversight:
Hiring and supervising key city staff; ensuring compliance with state and federal laws; overseeing city departments; contract and public services
Community:
Listening to residents, concerns, and communicating city decisions and policies.
Ethical & Legal Obligations:
Follow the MN OML; avoid conflicts of interest; upholding the oath of official.
Mayor's Role:
Presides over meetings; signs ordinances, contracts and official documents; has the same vote as any council member (no veto power) The mayor is often seen as the public face of the city; but decisions are made by the full council.
How Council Meetings work:
Councils must follow the OML which requires that meetings be open to the public, proper notices of meetings, public access to agenda and materials.
Time Commitment:
Serving on a city council involves regular monthly meetings or workshops as needed; possible committee assignments; preparing time to review packets and materials; community communications.
Compensation and Benefits:
Per meeting stipend; mileage reimbursement if traveling to training or conference; some training or conference paid.
City Council Operate Under: MN Status Chapter 412(statutory cities), Chapter 13 (Data Practices) Chapter 130 Open Meetings, Chapter 471 Conflicts of Interest, Chapter 465 Municipal Bonds (debt and financing), Chapter 475 Municipal Utilities, and others. Local Ordinances and policies; City budget and financial policies.
*Council members need to understand these so they make informed decisions.
Working with Staff:
City staff (clerk/treasurer), Deputy Clerk; public works personnel, municipal liquor store manager and Fire Department are essential to the city. Council members provide direction through policy; rely on staff for their knowledge and expertise; maintain respectful, professional relationships.
What makes an effective Council Member:
Prepare thoroughly for meetings; ask thoughtful questions; listen respectfully to colleagues and residents; focus on the community's long-term benefit; follow proper procedures; communicate clearly and calmly; uphold fairness, transparency, and integrity. Be willing to attend council training, workshops, or conferences.
Why serve on a City Council?
People choose to serve because they want to improve their community; ensure responsible use of public funds; support local services, ensure city property and infrastructure is maintained; preserve small-town value while planning; bring new ideas and energy to the city.
*Serving on a City Council is a direct way to make a meaningful impact.
*Being a Finlayson City Council member is a rewarding opportunity to shape the future of your community. With a clear understanding of responsibilities, legal requirements &best practices. Council members can serve effectively and confidently.
** This is not a complete list
What “Statutory Plan A" means:
- Elected Leadership
- Elected Mayor (1)
- Elected Council Member (4)
- Appointed Administrative Staff
- Appointed Clerk/Treasurer
- Appointed Deputy Clerk
- Weak Mayor – Council Structure
- Mayor has one vote
- Mayor does not have veto power
- No City Manager
- Day to day administration of city business is generally handled by the City Clerk/Treasurer.
- Governed by Minnesota Statute
- Powers are defined in state law
- Ordinances must follow statutory procedures
You need to live within the City or own property within the City.