A city council member is an elected official who represents a specific area within a city, known as a district or ward. Their primary role is to make decisions on local laws, budgets, and policies that affect the community. They work closely with other council members and city officials to address issues such as public safety, housing, and transportation. City council members also engage with residents to understand their concerns and gather feedback. They often hold public meetings and forums, allowing citizens to voice their opinions. This helps ensure that the needs of the community are considered in the decision-making process.