Sean Pate is the City Manager for the City of Bonham. A veteran to city administration, Sean has managed the cities of Dalworthington Gardens, Clarendon, Poteet, Balcones Heights and Gladewater during his 14 year tenure. Sean holds a Bachelors of Science in Public Administration from West Texas A&M University and a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Bellevue University. Sean has been an active civic leader currently holding membership with Kiwanis Club, Lions and Rotary International.
On behalf of the City Council I would like to welcome you to Bonham. Thank you for visiting our website and please contact me with any questions or concerns you may have. Click Here to Email Sean Pate
Council - Manager Form of Government
In the council-manager form of government, the city council is the governing body of the city, elected by the public, and the city manager is hired by the city council to carry out the policies it establishes. The city council usually consists of seven members including a mayor (or council president) who is either selected by the city council or elected by the people as defined in the city charter. The size of the city council is generally smaller than that of a mayor-council municipality and city council elections are usually nonpartisan. The city council provides legislative direction while the city manager is responsible for day-to-day administrative operations of the city based on the city council’s recommendations. The mayor and council, as a collegial body, are responsible for setting policy, approving the budget, and determining the tax rate.
Responsibilities of the City Manager
The city manger serves as the council’s chief advisor. City managers also serve at the pleasure of the city council and are responsible for preparing the budget, directing day-to-day operations, and hiring and firing personnel. Typically, the mayor is recognized as the political head of the municipality but is a member of the legislative body and does not have the power to veto legislative actions.