What Is A Community Council?

Community councils are independent, nonprofit, voluntary, self-governing associations composed of residents, property owners, business owners, nonprofits, and other entities located within geographical areas (districts) designated by the Assembly. Community councils serve an advisory function to the Assembly, the Mayor and the Administration. The purpose of community councils is to provide a direct and continuing means of participating in the government process and local affairs. Community Councils are recognized in Anchorage’s Home Rule Charter, and the Assembly authorizes each council by ordinance. While community councils are not part of local government, they are an important part of the local government process.

Check out Community Council Roots - a snapshot of the early history of Community Councils from 1973 - 1978, written by Federation staff at the time. Read why Councils were added to the Home Rule Charter and how they grew within Anchorage. 

References

• Assembly 101: Community Councils

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yv2vTfOOcVQ

• Alaska Literary Program: Introduction to Community Councils

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1msO7s-reqc

• Demystifying Community Councils

Hosted by the Federation of Community Councils and featuring Darrel Hess, Jasmin Smith, and Evan Leaf.

• Community Councils 101