Independent bodies

These are policy-making groups with decision-making authority. 

• Those created by state law or the City Charter:
  • Operate independently from the City Council.
  • Have broad authority to make decisions in specific policy areas.
  • One example is the Charter Commission.
• Those created by city ordinance:
  • Are supervised by the City Council and Mayor.
  • Have limited, delegated authority to make certain decisions.
  • Often referred to as “quasi-independent."
  • One example is the Planning Commission.

See all independent bodies

Boards and commissions (Advisory bodies)

These boards are created by City Council resolution. These boards:

• Focus on specific topics and provide advice.
• Do not have decision-making authority.
• Operate entirely under the direction of the City Council and Mayor.
• One example is the Bicycle Advisory Committee.

See our boards and commissions