Legal Definitions - board of aldermen

A board of aldermen is a legislative body that governs a municipality, such as a town or a city. Its members, known as aldermen, are typically elected by the residents to represent their interests and make decisions on local laws, policies, and budgets. This body functions much like a city council, serving as the primary law-making and policy-setting authority at the local level.

Here are some examples illustrating the role of a board of aldermen:

• Example 1: Approving a New Zoning Ordinance

  The town of Willow Creek's Board of Aldermen held a public meeting to discuss a proposed ordinance that would restrict the construction of new commercial buildings in residential areas. After hearing input from residents and debating the potential impact, the aldermen voted to approve the new zoning ordinance, making it a local law. This illustrates the board's function as a legislative body responsible for creating and amending local regulations that affect the community's development and quality of life.

• Example 2: Allocating Funds for Public Services

  During their annual budget session, the Board of Aldermen for the city of Harborview reviewed proposals for the upcoming fiscal year. They debated how to best allocate funds for essential services like police and fire departments, public parks maintenance, and street repairs. Ultimately, they voted to approve a budget that increased funding for park improvements while maintaining current levels for emergency services. This demonstrates the board's critical role in financial governance, deciding how taxpayer money is spent to provide services to the community.

• Example 3: Addressing a Community Petition

  Residents of the Elmwood neighborhood presented a petition to the Maplewood Board of Aldermen, requesting the installation of new speed bumps on a busy street where several children play. The board discussed the safety concerns raised by the residents, reviewed traffic data, and consulted with the public works department. Following their deliberation, the aldermen passed a resolution authorizing the installation of the speed bumps. This shows the board's responsiveness to citizen concerns and its authority to implement changes that directly impact the safety and well-being of its constituents.