Who has the authority to administer in the council-manager form of local government?

In the council-manager form of local government, the municipal manager is the individual granted the authority to administer day-to-day operations and implement policies established by the elected council. This role typically includes overseeing staff, managing resources, and ensuring that the municipality operates efficiently and effectively.

The municipal manager is appointed by the council and serves at their pleasure, providing a direct line of accountability and support for the council's goals and objectives. This structure allows elected officials to focus on legislative functions while leaving the administrative aspects to a trained professional, enhancing government responsiveness and performance.

The other choices do not hold the same administrative authority in this form of government. The municipal clerk handles records and procedural functions, the elected council sets policy but does not manage operations directly, and the state governor, although influential in state matters, does not usually have authority over local administrative functions. This clear separation between the elected body and the appointed manager emphasizes the efficiency of the council-manager system in managing municipal affairs.