The role of the mayor
As part of the leadership role the mayor is involved in advancing community cohesion and promoting civic awareness and is the principal member and spokesperson for Council, including representing the views of the council as to its local priorities. This gives neighborhoods and diverse groups a greater opportunity to influence policy. Under the “strong mayor” form, political power is concentrated in the mayor, which means that other members of the elected body relinquish at least some of their policy-making power and influence.