Overview
The City of Portland was formed as a Private Act Charter Municipality. The City Charter provides for the specific powers, duties and responsibilities of the Mayor and Board of 7 Aldermen (City Council members). Although Portland was incorporated in May 1905 and the 1st mayor elected at that time, Portland's Private Act Charter was not established until 1939 by action of the Tennessee Legislature, defining the duties of the Mayor and board of seven Aldermen. Private Act Charter Municipalities make up more than 60% of all of Tennessee's cities.
Municipal elections are held every 4 years, on the 1st Tuesday of November to coincide with the general election per Ordinance 12-01. November voting began in 2014.
Portland's mayor is elected to a 4-year term. Three of the seven city council seats are filled in the same city election as that of mayor; each to 4-year terms. The remaining 4 city council seats are up for election to 4-year terms in the next election cycle. This election method is referred to as 'staggered terms' and was intended to retain experienced people in office at all times.
Board of Aldermen & Committee System
The Board of Aldermen and Committee system for the City of Portland serves as a great medium for working through much of the needs of our community.
Most of the fact-finding and debates take place in these forums. Recommendations and information are often sent from the appropriate committee to the full Board of Aldermen for review and/or action. The Board of Aldermen will then determine whether there is sufficient information to make a decision, or they may ask another committee or board to do further review before action is taken.
The public is always invited to these informative meetings.