Votes on city ordinances
Position guide
Alderman
An alderman is a city legislative member; the title is used by some municipalities instead of council member or commissioner.
- Government level
- City · Legislative
- Typical term
- Varies by charter
- Who it serves
- One municipality
The job in plain language01 02 03 04 How the position worksHow someone reaches the position Who the office works with Real-world choices01 02 03 Before you vote
What this position is responsible for
Aldermen vote on the same kinds of local issues handled by city councils in other communities.
Approves budgets and contracts
Reviews local development and services
Represents residents in city government
Power is shared—not exercised alone.
An alderman is elected under the municipality’s charter, usually by ward or at large. The title generally refers to a member of the city’s legislative board.
Aldermen act together as a board and work with the mayor, recorder, administrator, department heads, and residents. Exact executive or appointment duties depend on the charter.
Decisions voters may notice
City budgets, tax rates, ordinances, and contracts
Municipal services, development rules, streets, and public facilities
Appointments and administrative oversight assigned to the board
Questions worth asking
The answers may differ among candidates, but each question relates directly to the authority and responsibilities of this position.
- Does the candidate understand the municipality’s particular charter?
- What service and infrastructure choices would receive priority?
- How would the candidate separate constituent advocacy from day-to-day employee management?
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