LOCAL STRUCTURES IN MONTENEGRO
Montenegro is a unitary state consisting of 21 municipalities.
Local level: 21 opština (municipalities)
Local Authorities
The municipal assembly is the legislative body. Its members are elected by direct, universal suffrage for four years. Each assembly is made of 30 councillors plus an additional councillor per every 5,000 voters. The assembly adopts regulations; it adopts the budget, and establishes the level of local taxes. It can establish internal commissions and boards. It is chaired by a speaker who is elected from within the councillors.
The mayor is elected by direct suffrage for a five year mandate for a maximum of two terms of office. (S)he is the executive body of the municipalities. The mayor proposes regulations to be adopted by the assembly and is responsible for their implementation. (S)he also supervises the work of the administration. The mayor can appoint and dismiss deputy mayors.
Note: The capital city, Podgorica, is itself made of 2 “city municipalities”.
Competences
. Local development
. Urban and spatial planning
. Environmental protection
. Social welfare
. Public transport
. Education
. Culture and sport
