Aldermen are elected to a staggered three year term, and are eligible to hold office for up to three terms or nine years. They are advocates for the citizens of the ward. Among their duties:

• Approve the operating and capital expenditure budgets annually, as well as tax rates levied by the City.

• Plan for infrastructure improvement, parks and recreation, transportation, environment and commercial development.

• Respond to citizens on a wide array of issues affecting them personally, as well as issues affecting their neighborhoods or the city as a whole.