The City of Grand Terrace is a general law city governed by the council-manager form of government.  A general law city is one which operates under laws and rules established by the State of California.  The council-manager form of government optimizes the strong political leadership of the community’s elected officials, the City Council, with the professional expertise of a local government manager, the City Manager.  Under the council-manager form of local government, the City Council appoints the City Manager to carry out policy and ensure that all residents are being equitably served.  The City Manager is the chief administrative officer of the City organization and is responsible for the overall administration of programs and policies established by the City Council.  The City Manager appoints the department heads and other employees to assist with the City’s administrative responsibilities.  

In addition to the responsibilities mentioned above, the City Manager is also responsible for the following:

·       Develops a recommended annual budget which identifies program and services needs of the City, including capital improvements.

·       Evaluates and monitors staff’s progress on City Council established policies and programs, and fosters greater employee awareness of City issues, programs and priorities.

·       Responds to resident inquiries and concerns on City program and services.

·       Provides information to the City Council on state or federal legislation which may impact the City.

·       Serves as a liaison to intergovernmental agencies such as San Bernardino Associated Governments, Southern California Association of Governments and other agencies within the Inland Empire.

The City Manager also serves as the Executive Director of the Community Redevelopment Agency.