What is a characteristic of the mayor-council type of municipal government?

In a mayor-council type of municipal government, a key characteristic is that the mayor has the authority to appoint subordinates. This means the mayor plays an active role in the executive branch, selecting individuals to oversee specific departments or functions within the municipal government. This appointment power allows the mayor to influence how the government operates and implements policies, creating a clear distinction between the executive and legislative functions of government.

This structure typically facilitates a more centralized and coordinated approach to governance, wherein the mayor can choose individuals who align with their priorities and objectives for the community. The mayor-council system can vary widely from one municipality to another, but the ability to appoint subordinates remains a significant and defining feature of the mayor's role in this form of government. Other options, such as the mayor having no legislative power or the council's independence from the mayor, do not accurately describe the dynamics of mayor-council systems, where the interaction and balance of power play a crucial role.