Town supervisor

The position of Town Supervisor in New York State is usually the highest elected position in an incorporated town. The duties of the position are a fusion of legislative and executive functions. Supervisors sit on the Boards or Councils of the towns, and serve as full voting members; however their vote carries no more legal weight than that of any other elected or appointed member. Within this realm, they have little power beyond that of chairperson according to rules of order.

In addition to legislative duties they have certain executive duties such as negotiating and signing contracts for the town. However, most of their executive powers are strictly limited by both the New York State Constitution and the town charters. For example, supervisors-- unlike many mayors-- do not have the power of veto.

In most towns the Supervisor is considered a full time position, although many Supervisors also have other jobs concurrently, while the service on the town board is considered part time work.