With four at-large and nine district seats, the City Council is the official legislative body for Boston's neighborhoods. The council serves as a connection between residents and all facets of municipal government. The council has the authority to enact ordinances, resolutions and orders and it is mandated to represent the interest of Boston residents.

Weekdays, the council's offices on the fifth floor of City Hall are open to residents. Each councillor has a staff that is accessible to walk-in visitors, though appointments are recommended.

The council also accepts public comment during its weekly meetings in the City Council Chamber, which is also located on the fifth floor. Meetings start at noon each Wednesday.

Agendas for weekly meetings are available on the council's web site. A full schedule of the council's committee meetings is also available online too.