Who hires the city manager in the council-manager form of city government?

In the council-manager form of city government, the city manager is hired by the city council. This model is designed to promote professional management of city affairs, separating the political and administrative functions of government. The city council, composed of elected officials, is responsible for setting policies and overseeing the governance of the city, and they appoint the city manager to implement those policies and manage daily operations.

The city manager serves as the chief executive officer of the city, responsible for overseeing municipal operations, developing budgets, and managing personnel. This structure allows for a more efficient and professional administration since the city council can focus on legislative duties while the city manager handles operational responsibilities.

The other options, such as the governor, citizens, or mayor, do not have the authority to hire the city manager within this specific form of government, emphasizing the autonomous role of the city council in this arrangement.