What power does a strong mayor have in city government?

A strong mayor in city government typically has significant executive authority, primarily including control over budget formation and execution. This means that the strong mayor has the ability to propose budgets, allocate funds, and manage city finances, which is crucial for the implementation of policies and services that affect the community. The power over the budget allows the mayor to set priorities for spending and resource allocation, enabling them to align the city's financial resources with their policy objectives and vision for the city.

This strong authority over budget matters also contrasts with weaker forms of mayoral governance, where mayors may have limited input or authority and must rely more heavily on the city council for financial decisions. A strong mayor often represents a centralized style of governance, where decision-making capabilities are concentrated, thus enhancing the efficiency and responsiveness of the city government.