Council-Manager Government

Burien, the 10th largest city in King County and the 29th largest city in the state, incorporated as a non-charter, optional Code City on February 28, 1993. The city is governed under the council-manager form of government.  A seven-member council sets policy and hires the city manager who oversees city operations. Burien is a contract city and contracts for such services as police and public works maintenance.  Special districts provide fire services and utilities. In-house departments  include Finance, Parks and Recreation, Human Resources, Public Works and Community Development. Government Relations, City Clerk services, and  communications are centered in the City Manager's office.

In the Council-Manager form of government, the city voters elect seven citizens at large to serve on the City Council. To be a candidate for office, an individual must be a registered voter and live within the city limits for at least one year prior to filing for office. Each councilmember is elected to a four-year term.  The mayor is elected from within the council and serves a two-year term. 

The Council

Every two years, the City Council elects a mayor from among its membership. A deputy mayor is elected for a one-year term at the beginning of each year. The mayor presides over city council meetings, and performs ceremonial duties.

Councilmembers formulate policy for the city through the debate and approval of motions, ordinances (laws), and resolutions (statements of policy).  Formal action is taken on the basis of the city's vision and council adopted work program.  Subjects for Council consideration are listed on the Council Agenda. Council policies are compiled in the Burien Municipal Code.  Other polices, such as the annual Legislative Policy are adopted in addition to ordinances and resolutions.

The City Council holds business meetings on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month and study sessions on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month. Meetings begin at 7:00 p.m. at the Educational Services District Administration Building (ERAC), 15675 Ambaum Blvd. SW. Council meetings will be held there until the new City Hall is constructed in late 2008 or early 2009. When a holiday occurs on a Monday, the council does not meet. 

Regular meetings are televised on TBC21, the Burien Government Channel throughout the week of the meeting.  Check the program schedule for exact times.

City Manager

City managers are trained professionals in the operation of government. It is the city manager's job to implement the city council's policies through the preparation of a city budget and capital improvement program for the council's final approval.