sindaci

Sindaci (singolare: sindaco) are the heads of municipalities (comuni) in Italy. The plural sindaci refers to multiple mayors. The sindaco acts as the chief executive and legal representative of the comune. Since the 1990s reforms, most comuni elect their sindaco by direct popular vote, while smaller comuni may have the mayor elected by the municipal council. The usual term of office is five years, with possible re-election under the applicable electoral law.

Responsibilities include presiding over the giunta comunale, the executive body that implements council policies, and coordinating the municipal administration. The sindaco signs official acts, oversees public services such as urban planning, housing, transportation, education, culture, and social services, and directs the local police (polizia locale) in conjunction with regional authorities.

The sindaco operates within the framework of the municipal council (consiglio comunale) and is accountable to it. The council approves the budget and local regulations, while the sindaco ensures legality, efficiency, and coordination with regional and national authorities. The position combines political leadership with day-to-day administration and is often central to local reforms and community priorities.

Related topics include comune administration, giunta comunale, and consiglio comunale.