Burgomaster

   The burgomaster (bourgmestre, burgermeester) is the chief executive of the commune. The administrative duties of the post include signing of decrees, ordinances, and local laws; giving instructions to the communal secretary; and verifying at least once every quarter the financial accounts of the commune. As president of the communal council, the burgomaster presides over the council meetings and, as president of the college of aldermen, directs debate in the latter body. The burgomaster is appointed for a term of six years by the king on the advice of the minister of the interior. The minister normally puts forward the name of the nominee chosen by a majority of members of the communal council. In theory, the burgomaster can be appointed from outside the council and any voter resident in the commune and over 25 years of age is eligible. The term of appointment is renewable. Holders of provincial offices, salaried employees of the commune, police officers and officials, and members of the armed forces on active duty are ineligible. The burgomaster serves as the spokesperson and representative of the commune, the individual who represents the community at official ceremonies and celebrations. See appendix C for a list of the burgomasters of Brussels since 1830.