Common Council

The "legislature" of each city in Wisconsin is the common council. Its members, also called councilperson or alderpersons, are elected on a nonpartisan basis at the spring election. By state law, the council has control of city property, finances, streets and public services.

In general, the council may approve and amend the citys annual budget, grant city licenses, levy property and other authorized taxes, act on claims against the city, enter contracts and otherwise act for the good order of the city and welfare of the public.

Councils are required to meet at least monthly. The City of New Lisbon meets on the first and third Monday of each month at 7pm.

The Mayor presides over council meetings. Although listed by statute as a member of the council, the mayor may vote in case of a tie and cannot be counted in determining a quorum. Each council selects a Council Presidents who presides over council meetings in the Mayors absence.