Government

Delaware's Charter, or "constitution," was approved by voters in 1951 and went into effect January 1, 1954, establishing the Council-Manager form of government. The powers of the City are for local self-government under the Home Rule provisions of the Ohio Constitution and statutes. All legislative powers are vested in the Council, which consists of seven members, four elected on a non-partisan basis from four wards and three at large, for staggered four year terms. The Council elects one of its members to serve as Mayor for a term of two years. The Mayor presides at meetings of Council and is recognized as the official head of the City for ceremonial purposes, by the Governor for military purposes and by the courts for the purpose of serving civil process. The Mayor retains his or her vote on Council. A Vice Mayor is also chosen by the same method for a two-year term and acts in the absence of the Mayor. The Council appoints the City Clerk to keep the journal and records of Council and other duties as they may require. Throughout the existence of this Charter, the Clerk has been a part-time position without additional duties assigned by the Council or the City Manager. The Council also appoints the City Manager as chief executive and administrative officer of the City. All other administrative appointments are the responsibility of the City Manager, with exceptions according to the Charter and Ohio civil service provisions.