The Hierarchy and Influence over a City Mayor

More than a century ago, the role of a mayor was considerably different. They were often closer to what one would consider a janitorial role, serving under the dominance of governors. In modern times, the influence of a city mayor has significantly expanded. Today, in the case of large cities, mayors wield considerable political power, engaging in a significant amount of time in making political agreements, securing investment, and garnering credit for their city. In some scenarios, a city with a mayor can seem almost like a small country, with extensive governance and administrative powers.

The Role of the Governor and City Council

While a governor or president wield substantial influence over state or federal investment decisions and tax distribution, they are not directly the head of the mayor. However, they can have a significant degree of influence. The governor's role is not necessarily that of a direct boss, but rather a source of considerable political and financial influence. The city council plays a crucial role, providing checks and balances, and ensuring the mayor does not become a dictator. The city council is a significant player in overseeing a mayor.

The Power Behind the Scenes: Campaign Financiers

Besides the formal hierarchy, there is another layer of power one must consider: the financiers behind the politicians. The true boss of any politician, including a mayor, is often the financier who has the leverage to control the money and possesses the intimate secrets that can be used for blackmail. This financier has the power to control a politician's career, either by ensuring their success or by ensuring their downfall. The financier can force a check on a politician by threatening to reveal secrets that can send them to jail or tarnish their reputation.

The Canadian Context: Provincial Jurisdiction and City Council

In Canada, cities operate under provincial jurisdiction, meaning the city mayor is accountable to the public but equally, they answer to the minister of municipal affairs in a legal context. If a city mayor is involved in illegal activity, provincial municipal affairs can both investigate and remove them from office. In cases of widespread corruption, municipal affairs can even dissolve a city council and facilitate immediate new municipal elections. This system is in line with the Westminster Parliamentary System, where the legitimacy of a Prime Minister or Provincial Premier is subject to an annual review and vote.

The Role of Voters

The ultimate check on a city mayor is the voters. If the mayor incurs a significant number of disgruntled voters, they can be removed from office during the next election. The mayor is not a dictator; the city council has a significant role in providing oversight and ensuring checks and balances are maintained. The city is ultimately accountable to the electorate, which can fire them at election time.

Conclusion

The hierarchy and influence over a city mayor can be complex and multi-layered, involving various stakeholders such as the governor, city council, voters, and campaign financiers. Understanding these relationships is crucial for anyone interested in the dynamics of local governance.