Midland Park Government

Midland Park Municipal Government How Does It Work ?

The Midland Park Municipal Government operates under a Borough Council, consisting of a Mayor and six Council persons elected at large by the town citizens. The Mayor is elected to serve a four year term and may succeed that term by re-election. The Mayor is empowered as head of the municipal government to: Provide for the proper execution of local and State laws. Recommend to the Borough Council measures deemed in the best interest of the Borough. Nominate and, with the advice and consent of the Council, appoint most subordinate officers of the Borough. Maintain peace and order.

Although the Mayor presides over meeting of the Borough Council, the Mayor votes only in the case of a tie. State law also requires the Mayor to be a member of the Planning Board and Board of Trustees of the municipal Public Library.

The six Council members are elected at-large, two each year, for terms of three years. The Council exercises general legislative powers conferred upon it by State law to protect and promote the general welfare of the Borough. Among these are: The right to enact ordinances Approve resolutions Approve mayoral appointments Adopt the annual budget and determine tax levy During January of each year, the reorganization meeting of the Council is held at the Borough Hall. Council committees such as Police, Finance and Personal are established as well as liaison to the various volunteer groups (Fire, Rescue, First Aid, Police Auxiliary), boards (Zoning, Health, Shade Tree, Relief) and departments. Each is managed by one of their own officers, elected or appointed chairperson or a Borough employee. The Borough Administrator is charged with overseeing the daily activity of the borough and reports directly to the Mayor and Council.