City Council-Manager Form of Government: In the Council-Manager form of government, the Council is the governing body of the city elected by the public, and the City Manager is a Charter Officer of the city and hired by Council to carry out the policies it establishes. The Williston City Council consists of six members including a Mayor, Council President and Vice-president. The Council selects the latter two and the Mayor is elected by the people as defined in the city charter. Council elections are nonpartisan.

The Council provides legislative direction while the Manager is responsible for day-to-day administrative operation of the city based on the Council’s recommendations. The Council as a collegial body are responsible for setting policy, approving the budget, and determining the tax rate. The Manager serves as the Council’s chief advisor. The City Manager also serves at the pleasure of the Council and is responsible for preparing the budget, directing day-to-day operations, and hiring and firing personnel with the exception of the Police, and Fire Departments which answer to the elected Mayor.

The City Manager is also the focal point for Economic Development and the Airport and Industrial Park and is the Purchasing Agent for the City.

City Manager

Terry Bovaird