In the absence of the mayor, the mayor pro tempore shall exercise the powers granted in this chapter.
Other OfficersMayor
Section § 40601
If the mayor is not present, the mayor pro tempore can use the powers given in this chapter.
mayor pro tempore mayoral powers absent mayor
Section § 40602
The mayor is generally required to sign key city documents like checks, contracts, and any documents needing the city seal. However, a city can decide through a local law to let someone else sign these documents instead of the mayor.
The mayor shall sign:
(a)CA Government Code § 40602(a) All warrants drawn on the city treasurer.
(b)CA Government Code § 40602(b) All written contracts and conveyances made or entered into by the city.
(c)CA Government Code § 40602(c) All instruments requiring the city seal.
The legislative body may provide by ordinance that the instruments described in (a), (b) and (c) be signed by an officer other than the mayor.
mayor responsibilities city documents warrants
Section § 40603
The mayor has the authority to give oaths, take sworn statements (affidavits), and officially verify them.
The mayor may administer oaths and affirmations, take affidavits, and certify them.
mayor's authority administer oaths affirmations
Section § 40604
The mayor has the authority to officially recognize and confirm documents that the city signs, whenever they need such confirmation.
The mayor may acknowledge the execution of all instruments executed by the city and required to be acknowledged.
mayor's authority document acknowledgment city documents
Section § 40605
In general law cities where the mayor is elected, the mayor is responsible for appointing members to boards, commissions, and committees. These appointments need the city council's approval, unless a law states otherwise.
In general law cities where the office of mayor is an elective office pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 34900) of Chapter 7 of Part 1 of Division 2 of Title 4, the mayor, with the approval of the city council, shall make all appointments to boards, commissions, and committees unless otherwise specifically provided by statute.
general law cities mayor's appointments city council approval
