The City Clerk's Office consists of five divisions: Administration, Passports, Business Registration, Elections, and Records Management. The Elections Division is mobilized only during the period when elections are conducted.

The City Charter mandates that the City Clerk keep all books, papers, records and other documents; attend all meetings of the Mayor and Common Council; and keep minutes of all Council meetings.  Many public records are accessible online by clicking Search For Records Online.  The City Clerk is empowered to administer all oaths, keep a record of all demands, maintain official books and records (keeping them properly indexed and open to public inspection), issue business registration certificates, accept passport applications and to countersign all warrants.

Responsibilities

In addition to Charter-mandated services provided by this office, the City Clerk is also responsible for serving as filing officer for Statements of Economic Interest, Campaign Statements, and Appeals. The Clerk's Office processes liens for unpaid assessments on business registration accounts, building, weed and vehicle abatement. Processing ordinances and resolutions, coordinating required legal advertisements, and preparing all Council agendas are done by the City Clerk's Office.

The City Clerk's Office operates the Passport Acceptance Facility and is designated as an acceptance facility by the Department of State for the purpose of accepting applications for passports and administering oaths in connection therewith.

Business Registration Division issues all business registration certificates, is responsible for enforcing the transient merchant ordinance, personal property sales ordinance, and outdoor display ordinance. This Division issues a variety of permits and manages investigations for dine/dance live entertainment and games of amusement.

ADMINISTRATION

Council Meeting Agendas and Backups
General Outline of Action Required and Deadlines for Charter Amendments

BUSINESS REGISTRATION

IMPORTANT- STATE MANDATED FEE BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2013
City Business Registration Application
City Property Business Registration Application
Register Your New Business Online
Renew Your Business Registration Online