A town supervisor serves as the township’s chief officer, overseeing government operations. Depending on the charter and other documents that guide a town’s government, as well as powers granted by higher levels of government, such officers may have varying powers. Other towns may have a different form of government, with mayors rather than supervisors as part of the executive structure. The position of town supervisor is an elected position with a four-year term. At the end of their term, they may be eligible to run for re-election.
One aspect of the job is accounting. Many town supervisors audit accounts, prepare budgets, and collaborate on financial decisions with the town board or council. This may entail speaking with accountants, bankers, and other financial services providers about the town’s financial stability. The supervisor plays an important role in the process of obtaining loans or issuing bonds to fund government activities.
The town supervisor is also in charge of legislative work. This official, who usually sits on the town board, can draft and enact legislation. The supervisor oversees meetings and may have a deciding vote in ties and other situations. There are some checks and balances on executive power through the town board to ensure that town supervisors do not pass legislation at will and override constituents’ and board members’ expressed wishes.
The town supervisor is available to help members of the public with a variety of issues. People can give feedback on proposed policies and legislation, and the town supervisor can make changes. Individuals with ongoing safety, health, or other concerns may meet with the town supervisor to discuss the problem and find a solution. A disabled resident, for example, who is dissatisfied with the state of accessibility on public transportation, could ask the town supervisor for help in enacting and enforcing a more comprehensive policy.
Long and sometimes irregular hours are part of this job. Town supervisors keep regular office hours, but they are frequently called out in emergencies and must be prepared to respond. In the event of major breaking news, they may be called upon to answer questions at press conferences and deal with members of the media. They are the public face of their town, and they must develop good public relations and communications skills in order to work effectively with government agencies, residents, and members of the media.