City Council

Meetings

As the legislative body of the City, the City Council meets weekly throughout the year (except during the summer) to exercise general and specific powers as outlined in the Rules of the City Council according to the Plan E Charter Organization.

Council meeting dates, agendas and minutes are available online and meetings are broadcast live (and available for replay) through LTC.
 
View the most recent agenda and minutes.

Rules

The City Council and its various Subcommittee operate pursuant to rules established by the body. A copy of the City Council rules can be accessed via the link below.

View the City Council Rules

History

The City of Lowell was founded in 1826 as a planned industrial city, and incorporated as a City in 1836. Situated 28 miles northwest of Boston, and with a growing population exceeding 100K, Lowell is the fifth largest municipality in Massachusetts.


Selection

By charter, the City of Lowell follows a Plan E Form of government, in which the popular vote of the City of Lowell's residents elects eleven members to the City Council to serve a two year term of office. City Councilors then elect one of their members to serve as City Mayor, who serves as the official head of the City, presiding over City Council and School Committee meetings.


Appointments

The City Council appoints:

  • A City Auditor, to be responsible for the approval, payment, and recording of all financial transactions for the City.
  • A City Clerk, to be responsible as the administrator to the legislative function of City government.
  • A City Manager, to be responsible for the administration of the City day-to-day affairs.


Role

"The fundamental purpose of government is to provide for the safety and welfare of its citizens." - Anonymous

Among its duties, the City Council:

  • Responds to citizens and community groups seeking information or assistance
  • Votes on:
    • Bond issues
    • Certain organizational or advisory appointees
    • Grants
    • Land acquisitions and sales
    • Loans
    • Other financial appropriations
    • Proposed city budgets
    • Traffic control issues
    • Zoning changes

Numerous City Council Subcommittees work with various constituents and departments on execution of City services and activities, and review proposed plans, ordinances, resolutions, and orders before they are voted on by the full City Council.

The City's Municipal Code of Ordinances, outlining the City's adopted laws is available online here.