What is the scope of power of a municipal government?

The scope of power of a municipal government in Virginia is defined by the Commonwealth’s Constitution and applicable laws. Generally, municipal governments have three major powers: legislative, executive, and administrative. Legislative powers are those that allow a town or city council to enact laws that concern municipal affairs. Examples of laws that come under this power are those that regulate building and zoning, health and sanitation, public safety, local taxation, and other local concerns. Executive powers are those that allow the mayor or other officials to enforce laws and regulations. Examples include the approval of budgets, overseeing the operation of departments, appointing and removing department heads, and supervising personnel. Administrative powers enable local government to carry out its duties and powers. This includes the ability to establish departments and agencies, hire and dismiss personnel, and purchase land and other property, as well as the power to enter into contracts and grant franchises. Additionally, municipal governments have the authority to create organizations to address local concerns. Such organizations could be boards, commissions or authorities that regulate public services such as water, sewage, transportation, housing, and others. These organizations have the power to establish rules and regulations and to administer them on behalf of the municipality. In Virginia, the scope of power of municipal governments is broad. The Commonwealth has set a number of restrictions on local government authority, but local governments generally have extensive authority within their jurisdictions to address local concerns.

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What is the scope of power of a municipal government?

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