Section 3.31 Introduction

• Library: Local Government Deskbook (2017 Ed.)

A. (§3.31) Introduction

All actions of legal consequence that a governing body of a municipality or county may take are found in its ordinances, resolutions, and orders.

In general, an ordinance is a “local law” of a municipal entity, duly enacted by proper authority, that prescribes uniform and permanent rules of conduct relating to the corporate affairs of the entity. It is a legislative act that continues in force until repealed.

Although in writing and adopted by vote of the governing body, a resolution is not an ordinance. It is usually less solemn or formal than an ordinance and usually deals with matters of a special or temporary character. See Layne v. City of Windsor, 442 S.W.2d 497 (Mo. 1969). A resolution may express the opinion or state of mind of the governing body, or it may relate to the administrative or ministerial aspect of the entity. Julian v....