Borough Council is the legislative body of the Borough. It is comprised of seven members, each elected at large for four-year overlapping terms. After each general municipal election (i.e. every two years), Borough Council is reorganized and a Council President is selected from among members to preside over Council meetings and other events. In addition, during the biennial organizational meeting, members elect among themselves a chairman and vice-chairman for the following committees: Community Planning/Quality of Life, Employee Relations/Citizen Participation, Finance, Parks & Recreation, Public Safety, and Public Works. The primary duties of Borough Council include adoption of the annual budget, the establishment of policies for the conduct of Borough affairs, the enactment of ordinances and resolutions for the protection of the public’s safety and welfare, and approval of contracts and bids. Furthermore, Council’s responsibilities include the appointment of the Borough Manager and other respective officials, along with members of various municipal boards and commissions.
The Mayor, elected at large to a four-year term, is primarily responsible for the public safety of the community with emphasis on law enforcement and the day-to-day oversight and administration of the police department. The Mayor also reviews each ordinance and resolution of a legislative nature enacted by Borough Council, and can sign it, veto it, or permit it to become law without signature. The Mayor has the authority to break a tie vote of Borough Council. Another function of the office is to serve as spokesman for the community and to represent the Borough at various civic and social activities.
