Council-Manager Form of Government

The Town of Holly Springs operates under the council-manager form of government. Under this form of government, residents elect a governing body – including a chief elected official, such as a mayor or board chair – to adopt legislation and set policy. The governing body then hires a professional manager with broad executive authority to carry out those policies and oversee the local government’s day-to-day operations.

The council-manager role of government recognizes the critical role of elected officials as policymakers, who focus on mapping out collective vision for the community and establishing policies to govern it. The form also recognizes the need for a highly-qualified individual who is devoted exclusively to the delivery of services to residents.    

Key responsibilities of the manager include: 

  • Implementing priorities and policy decisions of the council. 
  • Directing and supervising the administration of all departments, offices and agencies of the town, subject to the general direction and control of the council, except as otherwise provided by law. 
  • Ensuring local, state and federal laws and regulations are met. 
  • Preparing a recommended operating and capital budget to the Town Council.

The council-manager form of government has become the most popular type of local government in the United States and in North Carolina for communities with populations of 2,500 or greater.

Click here for more information from the UNC School of Government on the council-manager form of government.