All South Carolina municipalities operate under one of these forms.  Although the administrative function of government varies with each form, the legislative function remains the council’s responsibility under all three forms. The City of Greer operates under the Council (weak mayor) form of government.

The Council form of government is considered government by committee because the council exercises all legislative and administrative functions.  This form, known as the “weak mayor” form of government is composed of a mayor and a council of four, six or eight members.  Section 5-11-20.  The City of Greer has a mayor and six council members elected from single member districts.

The mayor has no powers or responsibilities beyond other councilmembers except to preside over council meetings, call special meetings, and designate a municipal judge in certain cases.  Council may delegate administrative duties to the mayor.

Council may establish and determine the functions of municipal departments, offices or agencies.  Section 5-11-40(a).  It must adopt operating and capital budgets for the municipality prior to the beginning of the fiscal year.  It must also provide for the levy and collection of taxes necessary to meet the budget requirements.  Section 5-11-40(c).

Council may hire an administrator whose duties and responsibilities should be clearly defined by ordinance.  Section 5-11-40(a).  The City of Greer hires a full-time City Administrator to manage the day-to-day operations of the city.  The duties and responsibilities of the City Administrator are defined by Greer city ordinance and an employment contract with the Administrator.

Elections to change the form of government may only be held every four years under the Voting Rights Act.  The U.S. Department of Justice must pre-clear the election.  Following the election, the municipality must notify the Secretary of State's office if the form of government changes.  Section 5-5-30.

Source:  Municipal Association of South Carolina