Which of the following best characterizes the role of mayor in the council-manager form of city government?

In the council-manager form of city government, the role of mayor is primarily to serve as the presiding officer of the city council. This position involves leading council meetings, facilitating discussions, and ensuring that the legislative process is carried out effectively. The mayor, while often holding a significant symbolic and ceremonial role, does not have extensive executive powers like in a strong mayor form of government. Instead, the council-manager system emphasizes a division of responsibilities, where the city council makes legislative decisions and the city manager handles daily operational tasks.

This distinction is crucial in understanding the dynamics of governance in this structure. The mayor's function as a presiding officer allows for a collaborative approach in managing city affairs, where the city manager implements policies set forth by the council, which the mayor also represents.