The Village of Middleville operates under a council–manager form of government. This system combines the political leadership of the elected Village Council with the professional management expertise of the appointed Village Manager.
The Village Council serves as the community’s legislative and policy-making body. They represent the interests of residents and focus on developing policies that reflect the needs and priorities of the community. Power is centralized in the elected Council, which approves the budget, sets the tax rate, and establishes policies that guide the Village’s future. The Council also focuses on broad community goals, major projects, and long-term priorities such as community growth, land use, capital improvement planning, capital financing, and strategic planning.
To assist in implementing these plans and policies, the Council hires/appoints a Village Manager. The Village Manager brings professional training and experience to local government and administers projects and programs on behalf of the Council. Specific responsibilities of the Manager include preparing the annual budget for Council review, hiring and supervising staff, providing professional policy advice, and executing Council-approved initiatives. As the Council’s chief advisor, the Manager presents objective information, including the advantages, disadvantages, and long-term implications of policy options. While the Manager may recommend policies, final decisions rest with the Council, and the Manager is bound to carry out the Council’s actions.
This structure ensures a representative and accountable government, where decision-making authority rests with the elected Council, and day-to-day operations are managed by a qualified professional.
For more information on the council-manager form of government please see –
https://www.mme.org/the-council-manager-plan/