Job Description of a Deputy Mayor Pro Tem

by Harlow Keith
Small town mayors usually play a central role in a community's development.


The deputy mayor pro tempore, or deputy mayor pro tem, assumes mayoral duties in the event of a mayor’s absence due to death, physical incapacity, impeachment or resignation. The Latin term “pro tempore” means “for the time being,” so the assignation is temporary. The deputy mayor pro tem does not actually become mayor. While it depends on the jurisdiction, a deputy mayor pro tem is usually an appointed council member who only assumes mayoral duties when both the mayor and deputy mayor are unable to fulfill their positions.


The deputy mayor pro tem must first be a member of the city council. This requires being successfully elected to the position. There are no formal degree requirements to be a part of the city council, but a presence as a community leader is beneficial. For example, police officers, doctors, real estate agents and other occupations that allow maximum public visibility are the most likely to be elected. Once on the council, it is a good idea for a deputy mayor hopeful to work with other members, support their causes and demonstrate leadership capabilities. The deputy mayor pro tem appointee remains a council member.

Primary Responsibilities

The deputy mayor pro tem will spend most of his time on the city council. As a city council member, he will work to create and enforce new legislation, manage the city’s budget and oversee the administration of the city. The mayor assigns committees to the council that focus on specific municipal issues, like sanitation, real estate zoning or drug policy. Anyone considering becoming a deputy mayor pro tem should work on one of these committees not only to familiarize himself with the laws of the city but to demonstrate the initiative to lead.

Pro Tem Duties

While the deputy mayor pro tem assumes the roles of the mayor when both the mayor and deputy mayor are unavailable due to illness, resignation or death, the most common scenario is extended travel. The mayor and deputy mayor might be called away to represent the city in an out-of-town conference. In that case, the deputy mayor pro tem will assume all the powers of the mayor. He will sign executive documents, preside over the city council and represent the city in the same capacity. Cities usually limit the powers of the deputy mayor pro tem, prohibiting him from making special board appointments or assuming the mayoral role when the mayor is merely on vacation.


A city’s elected officials are usually residents in good standing. They meet certain age and residency requirements and are registered voters in the city they represent. They should possess excellent communication skills, managerial acuity and moral integrity. While many city officials have backgrounds in business, law or teaching, they can come from any industry, field or trade. What matters most is that they care about improving their communities.

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