Missouri § 78.560 - Organization of city council.
Full text of Missouri Revised Statutes of Missouri § 78.560 — Organization of city council., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 78.560. Organization of city council.
1. The city council shall at the time of organizing elect one of its members as mayor and another as chairman pro tem for a term of one year. In case the members of the city council, within five days after the time herein fixed for their organization meeting, are unable to agree upon a mayor or a chairman pro tem, of such council, then a mayor or chairman pro tem, or both, as the occasion may require, shall be selected from all the members of such council by lot and a record thereof shall be made upon the journal of the council.
2. The mayor shall preside at all meetings of the council and perform such other duties consistent with his office as may be imposed by it; and he shall have a voice and vote in its proceedings, but no veto.
3. The mayor shall be recognized as the official head of the city by the courts for the purpose of serving civil process, by the governor for the purpose of military law, and for all ceremonial purposes. The powers and duties of the mayor shall be such as are conferred upon him by sections 78.430 to 78.640, and no others.
4. If the mayor be temporarily absent from the city, or become temporarily disabled from any cause, his duties shall be performed during such absence or disability by the chairman pro tem. In the absence of both the mayor and chairman pro tem the other members of the city council shall select one of their number to perform the duties of mayor.
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(RSMo 1939 § 7084)
Prior revision: 1929 § 6934
---- end of effective 28 Aug 1939 ----
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Source: official Missouri text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri § 78.560
What does Revised Statutes of Missouri § 78.560 cover?
Section 78.560 ("Organization of city council.") is part of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, the codified statutory law of Missouri. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Missouri § 78.560?
A common citation format is "Revised Statutes of Missouri § 78.560" (Missouri). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Missouri law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Missouri official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Missouri attorney.
How does Missouri § 78.560 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Missouri can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Missouri.