Duties of the mayor of Topeka, Kansas
- Chief elected officer: The Mayor is the chief elected officer of the city, responsible for providing leadership and representing the community.
- Recommends legislation and initiatives: The Mayor recommends measures and legislation to the Governing Body (City Council) and proposes programs for the city's development in various areas, such as physical, economic, social, and cultural aspects.
- Economic development promoter: Actively promotes economic development to broaden and strengthen the commercial and employment base of the city.
- Ceremonial head: Serves as the ceremonial head of the city and represents Topeka in intergovernmental relations.
- Community leader: Provides community leadership.
- Presides over meetings and votes: Presides as Chair of Governing Body meetings and has the right to vote on most matters, with exceptions for ordinances where state law grants the Mayor veto power.
- No administrative powers: It's important to note that the Mayor has no administrative powers in this form of government. The administrative functions and enforcement of laws are typically handled by the City Manager, according to the Kansas State Legislature.
- Signs contracts: It is the Mayor's duty to sign all city contracts before the city becomes liable.
- Represents the Governing Body: The Mayor officially represents the Governing Body at city functions and in negotiations related to policy matters involving other government entities, and makes recommendations to the Council regarding these interactions.
