The Town of Alberton operates under Montana’s Commission-Executive form of government, commonly known as the Council-Mayor form of government. This structure divides the responsibilities of local government between a legislative branch and an executive branch.
The Town Council: The Legislative Branch
The Town Council is the legislative branch of Alberton’s municipal government. The Council acts as the governing body of the Town and exercises its authority through actions taken at properly noticed public meetings.
The Town Council is responsible for:
- Adopting ordinances and resolutions
- Establishing Town policies
- Approving the annual budget and major expenditures
- Setting utility rates, fees, and other charges
- Reviewing and approving agreements, contracts, and other actions requiring Council approval under Town ordinances or Montana law
- Representing the interests of Alberton residents
Council Members serve the community by discussing issues, gathering public input, and making decisions through the public meeting process. Individual Council Members do not have independent authority to direct Town employees, administer Town departments, or make decisions on behalf of the Town outside of official Council action.
The Mayor: The Executive Branch
The Mayor serves as Alberton’s chief executive officer and is responsible for administering the day-to-day operations of Town government.
The Mayor is responsible for:
- Implementing policies adopted by the Town Council
- Enforcing Town ordinances and applicable laws
- Supervising Town departments and employees
- Managing daily municipal operations
- Preparing recommendations and information for Council consideration
- Helping develop and administer the Town budget
The Mayor works with Town staff to ensure that services are delivered effectively and that Council-approved policies are carried out.
Town Employees and Departments
Town employees work within the executive branch of government and are responsible for carrying out the daily functions of municipal government. Departments and staff perform their duties under the supervision and direction of the Mayor, in accordance with Town ordinances, personnel policies, and applicable law.
Employees provide information and professional recommendations to both the Mayor and the Town Council, but administrative decisions and personnel supervision are part of the executive function of government.
Working Together
Effective local government depends on cooperation between the legislative and executive branches.
The Town Council establishes policies and makes decisions on behalf of the community through official Council action. The Mayor and Town staff administer Town operations and implement those policies. By working together within their respective roles and responsibilities, elected officials and employees help ensure transparent, accountable, and effective government for the residents of Alberton.
Public Participation
Residents are encouraged to attend Town Council meetings, stay informed about local issues, and participate in the decision-making process. Information about meetings, agendas, minutes, and public notices can be found on the [Town Calendar Page] and elsewhere on the Town website.