Scranton

Scranton is Pennsylvania’s only city of the second class A (population 80,000 – 249,000), and therefore has its own state statute. The city adopted its home rule charter in 1974.

CITY COUNCIL

The mayor, who is elected, has broad administrative power. He or she can appoint and remove personnel, is responsible for preparing the annual budget, recommends measures for the consideration of council and may veto legislation which may be overridden by a two-thirds majority of the council.

The council — five members elected at large.

City Clerk – appointed by council.

Controller – elected, serves a four-year term.

POTENTIALLY USEFUL INFORMATION

Council sets compensation of elected officials, but compensation cannot be increased or changed during their elected term of office.

The city charter mandates a personnel system for appointment, promotion and removal of all employees based on merit and fitness.

City employees are members of retirement systems. Retirement for police and firefighters is administered separately from that of other employees.

Scranton’s charter authorizes direct legislative action by voters through initiative and referendum.