What Does an Alderman Do?
An alderman represents residents and helps make decisions on local laws, budgets, policy, and other matters that affect the community. The role includes reviewing city information, participating in Board of Aldermen meetings, listening to residents, and helping people better understand local issues and processes. In Lake Saint Louis, the city is governed by a mayor and six aldermen, and the Board is responsible for ordinances, finances, and other key decisions that shape the community.
A Helpful Distinction
An alderman is an elected role, but at the municipal level it is generally nonpartisan, meaning there are no party labels on the ballot for the office. The work is focused on local issues, stewardship, judgment, and community impact rather than party politics in the way many people think about state or national office.
Key Responsibilities
-
Listen to residents and represent community concerns
-
Review agendas, packets, budgets, and other city materials
-
Attend and participate in Board of Aldermen meetings
-
Vote on ordinances, resolutions, budgets, and other city matters
-
Help shape local laws and city policy
-
Take part in decisions affecting public safety, infrastructure, planning, and quality of life
-
Provide oversight and stewardship of public funds and city resources
-
Help residents better understand city issues, processes, and decisions
How the Role Fits with City Government
Aldermen are elected by residents to represent their ward and help guide the future of the community. We work alongside city staff, departments, committees and boards, and fellow aldermen to review information, discuss issues, and make decisions that reflect the needs and values of residents.
What an Alderman Does Not Do
An alderman helps govern the city through decisions, oversight, and policy, but does not usually handle day-to-day administrative work personally. City staff and departments carry out many operational responsibilities, while the Board focuses on governance, finances, ordinances, and broader city direction.
Related Civic Information
Want to learn more? These pages offer a simple overview of how local government works and where to find information.
Understanding Municipal Government
How City
Meetings Work
