| The document known as the "Community Agreement", adopted in 1919, assures Garden City of "government without politics." Ours is truly a unique form of government, free from political partisanship. It has served the community well for eight decades. As set in the Community Agreement, the Village is governed by a Board of Trustees comprised of eight members, one of whom is the Mayor. The Trustees are elected by the non-partisan vote of residents. The four Property Owners' Associations are the conduits which supply the slate of candidates. At all times each section of the Village has two of its residents on the Board of Trustees, assuring equal representation. The same representation applies to the office of the Mayor, which rotates among the four sections every two years. The various Village boards and committees which serve the trustees in advisory capacities are made up of local residents appointed by the Board of Trustees, and like them, serve without compensation. Each of the four sections of the Village - East, Central, Estates and West - has its own Property Owners' Association to represent it at the neighborhood level and in Village government. Membership in the Property Owners' Association is open to residents of the respective sections. Participation in local government - for example - election to the Board of Trustees or appointment to the various boards and commissions - usually starts with volunteer involvement in the Property Owners' Associations. The opinions and positions of the associations are instrumental in forming Village government policy. The four associations send periodic newsletters to residents, and notices of their meetings appear in local newspapers. Names and Phone numbers of association officers can also be obtained by calling Village Hall. You are encouraged to participate in your respective association. Not only will you find it rewarding but you will be helping to perpetuate the excellent quality of life that we enjoy in our community. Please click here for additional information on Garden City's Community Agreement. |