The City Administrator supervises all of the City's departments and employees; serves as the City Council's chief advisor and carries out the council's policies; recruits, hires, disciplines, and fires employees; prepares the annual budget for the City Council's consideration; and fulfills a leadership role in the community as a means of advancing the interests of the City.

Council members and citizens count on the City Administrator to provide complete and objective information, pros and cons of alternatives, and long-term consequences of decisions and policies. Similarly, the City Administrator relies on City staff to provide professional and well-reasoned information and recommendations, and the highest level of public service possible.