Specific duties of the mayor, especially in meeting management. The entire city council acts to govern the city. Limitations on individual members such as conflicts of interest and incompatible offices. Filling vacancies in office. Running for elective office.
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Resources to help newly elected city officials prepare for their new roles in city government.
Find out what records should be in a personnel file, and which should be in other special types of files.
Understand the council’s role, including eligibility for office, council powers versus individual council member roles, and delegation of council power.
Learn common ways council members may overstep their proper role and the personal liability that may ensue.
Learn responsibilities of city officials to avoid prohibited personal or financial benefits in contracts.
Legal concepts related to constitutional free speech rights. How to balance them with public safety concerns.
Get answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) on what cities need to know regarding federal executive orders and actions.
A sampling of guidance for new council members.
A resource for practical and legal issues concerning Minnesota city mayors. Focuses on leadership, meeting and public hearing management skills.
Understand how state laws affect a city’s ability to prohibit guns on city property.
Winter 2026 — Various Locations | The Elected Leaders Institute provides city officials with the tools they need to succeed as city leaders.
[FREE COURSE] This course covers the First Amendment and how it applies to city governments.
[FREE COURSE] This mini-course describes the circumstances under which you can close a meeting.