As the largest local government in the country, NYC is home to hundreds of city agencies and elected offices. It can be difficult to keep track of who does what, when, and why. The links and information in this section are intended to help people navigate and understand the many parts of NYC’s system of local government.
The City Council is the legislative branch of New York City government, with broad power to enact ordinances and resolutions and a wide range of other administrative functions. Council members are elected from districts or wards and are accountable to their constituents. The City Council also appoints the Mayor and the City Controller, sets the annual budget, approves bond issues, and confirms executive appointments.
In addition to their policy and legislative duties, City Council members serve on numerous committees. These committees address a variety of issues such as zoning, land use, economic development, public safety and finance. The Speaker and the Majority Leader are ex officio members of all standing committees.
The meetings of the City Council are open to the public. All meetings are broadcast live on the internet, and video recordings can be viewed here. Good and Welfare, an opportunity for the public to speak on any topic pertaining to the City, is held following each regular meeting. Click here for a schedule. To be included on the list to speak at Good and Welfare, please contact the Committee on General Welfare prior to the start of the meeting.