The Town Secretary plays a pivotal role in the administration of our Town, serving as the central point of coordination for all municipal operations. As a key executive, the Town Secretary ensures the smooth functioning of the Council’s affairs, overseeing various departments and ensuring that they work together effectively to meet the needs of our residents.

Responsibilities of the Town Secretary

The Town Secretary’s responsibilities and duties are outlined in Section 136 of the Urban Councils Act, which provides a legal framework for the effective governance and management of the Town. The role encompasses a wide array of functions, including:

1. Administrative Leadership
   As the chief administrative officer, the Town Secretary ensures the proper administration of the Council. This includes overseeing the execution of Council decisions, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, and leading efforts to continuously improve municipal services. The Town Secretary is responsible for managing Council operations and the Town’s property, ensuring that these assets are utilized efficiently for the benefit of the community.

2. Coordination and Oversight
   All department heads report directly to the Town Secretary. This structure fosters streamlined communication, ensuring that issues are resolved quickly and that resources are allocated effectively. By working closely with the heads of each department, the Town Secretary ensures that the Town’s goals and objectives are met in a timely and organized manner.

3. Reporting to Council
   The Town Secretary maintains regular communication with the Council, providing updates on the state of the municipality, financial reports, policy recommendations, and other critical matters. This role ensures that the Council has the information it needs to make informed decisions on behalf of the community.

Key Sections Headed by the Town Secretary

The Town Secretary also oversees the following critical sections, ensuring that they align with the Town’s strategic vision:

1. Internal Audit and Procurement Management Unit
   The Internal Audit function ensures transparency, accountability, and sound financial management across all departments. The Town Secretary guarantees that audit practices comply with statutory requirements, and that all procurement processes are conducted in an open and competitive manner. The Procurement Management Unit ensures that all goods and services acquired by the Council meet quality and cost-effectiveness standards.

2. ICT Department
   In today’s digital age, effective ICT systems are essential to municipal success. The Town Secretary leads the ICT team in developing and maintaining robust technological infrastructure, enhancing the efficiency of Town services. This includes the implementation of innovative technologies that improve service delivery, streamline operations, and promote e-governance.

3. Procurement Management Unit (PMU)
   The PMU ensures that the acquisition of goods, services, and works for the Council follows established procurement policies. The Town Secretary oversees the integrity of the procurement process, guaranteeing that it is fair, transparent, and value-driven, while ensuring that the Town’s resources are used responsibly.

A Leader in Municipal Governance

The Town Secretary’s role is instrumental in ensuring that the needs of the community are met through effective administration and responsible governance. By spearheading the operations of various departments, the Town Secretary plays a critical role in driving progress, fostering accountability, and delivering high-quality services to residents.

As the head of administration and a key liaison between the Council and its departments, the Town Secretary is committed to the ongoing development and prosperity of the Town. Whether through managing complex projects, ensuring fiscal responsibility, or overseeing technological innovation, the Town Secretary remains dedicated to serving the community with integrity and excellence.