New York City City Council is the lawmaking or legislative body of the city. It has 51 members from the 51 council districts throughout the five boroughs. City Council elections are on November 2nd, 2021.
budget approval
City Council must vote and pass a budget for New York City every year. They receive the budget from the Mayor’s Office. The budget is typically voted on in July. See the 2021 Fiscal Year’s budget.
making laws
City Council members can sponsor and vote on legislation. The Council holds hearings on legislation in which organizations, members of the public, and other agencies can speak on the proposed legislation. The Mayor may veto the passed legislation, but if 2/3rd of City Council vote for it, it passes.
city council members
City council members are elected by the citizens of their district. Each member serves a four year term and can serve two terms maximum. Each council member serves on at least three committees. The salary for council member is $148,500 per year.
Oversight
City Council checks the Mayor’s Offices and monitors city agencies and land use, like zoning, landmarks, and public sitings. There are 35 committees within City Council that oversee city functions. Some committees include:
Civil and Human Rights
Economic Development
Housing & Buildings
Oversight and Investigations
Transportation
Caucuses
There are six caucuses within City Council that meet to ensure that certain communities are represented. These are:
Black, Latino, and Asian Caucus
Irish Caucus
Jewish Caucus
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Caucus
Progressive Caucus
Women’s Caucus
