The Haftarah reading follows the Torah reading on each Sabbath and on Jewish festivals and fast days. Typically, the haftarah is thematically linked to the parasha (Torah portion) that precedes it. The haftarah is sung in a chant (known as trope in Yiddish or Cantillation in English). Related blessings precede and follow the Haftarah reading.
A city resident wishing to become mayor must specifically run for that office. The mayor acts as the official head of city government and presides at City Council meetings. The mayor is a voting member of the Council. The mayor also appoints Council members to City Council committees and liaison positions. In May 2000, voters approved the current election system of nine Council members elected by single-member districts and a voting mayor elected at large.
City Council Meetings. The City Clerk attends all City Council meetings, unless excused, and directs the taking of official minutes. The City Clerk certifies completed minutes, and acts as Clerk to the City Council. Official City Records. The City Clerk's Office ensures that books of all certified minutes, resolutions, ordinances, Municipal City Code and other official city documents are maintained. The office also maintains copies of all agreements and contracts entered into by the City.