Decision-making

Finnish local authorities have a high level of autonomy which is guaranteed by the Constitution. Every four years residents elect a local council in free and democratic elections.

The council is the decision-making authority in municipal finances and operations. The size of the council is in proportion to the local population size; the smallest council has 13 councillors whereas the largest has 85 councillors.

The municipal executive board, which is appointed by the council, does the preparatory work on matters coming before the council. The board is responsible for the municipality's day-to-day administration and financial management.

In Finland, the municipal manager is an official appointed by the local council, who serves under the municipal executive board.