Lakeland BOC Reviewing Potential Government Restructuring

The Lakeland Board of Commissioners (BOC) is continuing its evaluation of a potential change to the city’s form of government, with further discussion scheduled for later this month.

The ongoing review follows a proposal to transition from Lakeland’s current city manager–commission structure to a mayor-and-aldermen system, similar to Germantown and Collierville. Under the existing framework, which has been in place since 1977, the mayor and four commissioners each hold equal voting authority, while a city manager is responsible for overseeing the city’s day-to-day operations.

Any proposed shift would require an amendment to the city charter and could introduce district-based representation, a move some believe would better reflect the community’s growth and evolving needs.

Mayor Josh Roman acknowledged that the idea of restructuring the city’s government has surfaced previously and noted that there are valid arguments on both sides. While recognizing certain limitations within the current system, he also emphasized its track record of success.

“I’m a firm believer that everything evolves, but it should evolve after identifying a problem, not just for the sake of change,” Roman said. “We have spent more than any suburb on paving, created a school district, and lowered crime to minimal levels. We did this all with the lowest property tax in Shelby County, so it feels like things are going pretty good with this form of government.”

Supporters of the proposed change argue that a mayor-and-aldermen structure could provide clearer distinctions between executive and legislative responsibilities, with the mayor leading administrative functions and aldermen focusing on policymaking. Others suggest that the shift could encourage greater civic engagement, particularly in local elections that have recently experienced limited competition.

Commissioner Connie McCarter pointed to Lakeland’s continued growth as a reason to reconsider the current model, indicating that adjustments may be necessary to better serve residents in the future.

The board is expected to revisit the topic at its April 16 meeting, where a municipal governance expert will present potential options and key considerations related to any structural changes.

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