If a ward position becomes vacant, a special election is held to fill the unexpired term. Unlike an at large position, a ward vacancy is not filled until a special election. All special elections must be held within 114 days of the declaration of a vacancy. Duties of the Council As the legislative branch of local government, the Council enacts laws, approves the annual operating budget, and establishes and oversees the programs and operations of all District government agencies. To carry out its duties, the Council considers how a proposed law would affect citizens and the quality of life in the District, analyzes its fiscal impact and holds public hearings to solicit citizen comment.
Council standing committees conduct oversight hearings on government operation.
In addition, Members assist citizens in accessing government services. The Council meets in the Council Chamber on the first floor of 441 4th Street, N.W., Washington D.C. Meetings are public, and agendas are available to visitors and published a week in advance in the Council's Calendar of the Week. Meetings are broadcast live on Channel 13 and vary in length depending on the agenda. The Auditor serves for a six-year term. The appointed officers of the Council are the General Counsel, the Secretary to the Council, and the Budget Director.