The City operates under the Mayor-City Council form of government. It is divided into seven wards, each ward being represented in the City Council by two elected representatives (Aldermen). The Mayor is elected as well. Together, the Mayor and City Council serve as the policy-making body of the City. They perform such functions as passing resolutions and ordinances, approving the expenditure of money, levying taxes, approving subdivisions, zoning, and other land use regulations; and generally deciding on important issues that affect the City of West Chicago.
The City Clerk, an elected official, attends meetings of the City Council, keeps records of its proceedings, publishes and attests to all resolutions and ordinances passed by the City Council. The Clerk also attests to all contracts of the City, as well as all licenses, permits and other documents. The City Clerk is responsible for keeping the official minutes of all other City Boards and Commissions as well as maintaining the City Code. Local, state and federal election information is distributed and voter registration is conducted throughout the year.
The City Administrator, who is appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the City Council, is responsible for all aspects of administration, financial planning, directing, and supervising City operations. Department Directors, who are appointed by the Mayor with recommendation of the City Administrator and the consent of the City Council, guide the activities of their respective operating departments. The Department Directors are charged with the responsibility of implementing City Council policy, maintaining operations, conducting research, and providing information on important issues to the City Council.
City Council meetings occur the first and third Mondays of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, unless otherwise posted.
Members of the public are welcome to speak at meetings of the City Council for the purpose of addressing the City Council with concerns of comments regarding issues of City Business. The complete City Council Rules Pertaining to Public Comment can be found by clicking here.
Agendas are available for public review the Friday afternoon before the City Council meeting. Agendas are posted at City Hall on the public bulletin board and are available outside Council Chambers. The agendas and meeting minutes can also be found by clicking here.
Any person with a disability who wishes to attend the City Council meeting and requires special accommodation, should call City Hall, (630) 293-2200 ext. 135 prior to the scheduled meeting.
