One of the most common sources of frustration in local government is confusion about
who actually has the authority to make decisions.
Key principle: Authority in Neosho is intentionally divided.
No single person or body controls everything — and that’s by design.
City Council (Legislative Authority)
City Council is the legislative body of the City. Council acts collectively in public meetings
and exercises authority only through votes.
- Adopts ordinances and resolutions
- Sets policy and long-term direction
- Approves the City budget
- Appoints the City Manager and boards/commissions
What City Council does not do
- Run daily operations
- Direct individual staff members
- Decide enforcement outcomes
- Prejudge appeals, hearings, or variances
City Manager (Administrative Authority)
The City Manager administers City operations and carries out policies adopted by Council.
- Supervises City staff and departments
- Implements Council-adopted policy
- Oversees enforcement of ordinances
- Manages contracts and daily operations
Boards & Commissions
Boards and commissions exercise limited, quasi‑judicial authority within defined boundaries.
- Act only within delegated authority
- Must follow due‑process requirements
- Do not answer to individual Council members
Why this separation matters:
It protects fairness, prevents favoritism, ensures due process, and reduces legal risk.
Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only and is not an official City of Neosho publication or legal advice.