How Many Years Can a Mayor Serve in the USA?

Are you curious about mayoral term lengths and limits in the USA? Understanding the rules governing how long a mayor can serve is essential, especially if you’re involved in local politics or just an engaged citizen. At rental-server.net, we provide you with server solutions to keep your data secure and accessible. We’ll clarify term lengths, term limits, and the pros and cons of these regulations to help you easily understand the role of your city’s leader. With our secure servers, your sensitive information will be protected and accessible, allowing you to perform data analysis, enhance server performance, and optimize IT infrastructure.

1. What is the Typical Term Length for a Mayor?

The most common mayoral term length in the United States is four years. According to a 2006 survey by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), 45% of cities reported using four-year terms for their mayors.

1.1. Variation in Term Lengths

While four years is the most frequent term, mayoral term lengths can vary considerably across different municipalities. Here’s a breakdown of how common different term lengths are, based on the ICMA survey:

One Year: 14% of cities
Two Years: 35% of cities
Three Years: 6% of cities
Four Years: 45% of cities
Other: 1% of cities

This variation reflects the diverse governance structures and local preferences throughout the United States.

1.2. Why Do Term Lengths Vary?

Several factors influence the term length of a mayor:

Local Traditions: Historical practices and community norms often play a significant role.
City Charters and Ordinances: Many cities define term lengths through their charters or specific ordinances.
State Laws: In some cases, state laws may dictate or influence the term lengths of municipal leaders.
Political Considerations: Local political dynamics and voter preferences can also lead to changes in term lengths.

Understanding these factors can provide insight into why your city has chosen a particular term length for its mayor.

1.3. Four-Year Terms: The Most Common Choice

The popularity of four-year terms reflects a balance between providing mayors sufficient time to implement policies and ensuring regular accountability to the electorate. Four years allows a mayor to:

Develop and Execute Long-Term Plans: Mayors can initiate and oversee significant projects and initiatives.
Build Relationships: Forge partnerships with other government entities, businesses, and community organizations.
Address Complex Issues: Tackle multifaceted challenges that require sustained effort and attention.

Choosing a four-year term suggests a focus on stability and strategic planning within the local government.

1.4. Shorter Terms: Emphasizing Accountability

Cities that opt for shorter terms, such as one or two years, often prioritize:

Increased Accountability: Frequent elections keep mayors closely aligned with public opinion.
Responsiveness to Change: Short terms allow for quicker adjustments in leadership and policy direction.
Citizen Engagement: More frequent elections can stimulate greater civic participation and awareness.

Shorter terms can be particularly beneficial in rapidly evolving urban environments where adaptability is key.

1.5. Comparing Term Lengths: A Quick Reference

To help you visualize the prevalence of different term lengths, here’s a table summarizing the data:

Length Of Term	Percentage Reporting	Benefits	Drawbacks
1 year	14%	High accountability, responsiveness, citizen engagement	Limited time for policy implementation, potential instability
2 years	35%	Good balance of accountability and policy implementation	May still be insufficient for long-term projects
3 years	6%	Moderate accountability and policy implementation	Less common, may not align well with election cycles
4 years	45%	Sufficient time for policy implementation, relationship building	Less frequent accountability, potential for detachment from public opinion

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2. What Are Term Limits for Mayors?

Term limits restrict the number of terms a mayor can serve. While not as common as term limits for state legislatures, some cities do impose these restrictions to prevent the concentration of power and encourage new leadership.

2.1. Prevalence of Term Limits

According to the ICMA survey, only 9% of cities impose term limits on their mayors. This suggests that most cities rely on the electoral process to hold mayors accountable rather than enforcing strict term limits.

2.2. Common Term Limit Structures

For cities that do have term limits, the most common structures are:

Two-Term Limit: 55% of cities with term limits
Three-Term Limit: 30% of cities with term limits
Four-Term Limit: 9% of cities with term limits

The prevalence of two-term limits indicates a preference for regular turnover in leadership positions.

2.3. Factors Influencing Term Limit Adoption

Several factors may influence a city’s decision to adopt term limits:

Historical Context: Past experiences with long-serving mayors can shape attitudes toward term limits.
Political Reform Movements: Term limits are often championed by groups seeking to reduce the influence of entrenched incumbents.
Public Opinion: Voter sentiment regarding term limits can play a crucial role in their adoption.
City Size: Larger cities are more likely to impose term limits due to the increased potential for corruption and abuse of power.

Understanding these factors can shed light on why some cities choose to limit mayoral terms while others do not.

2.4. Successive vs. Total Term Limits

Some cities differentiate between successive and total term limits.

Successive Term Limits: Restrict the number of consecutive terms a mayor can serve but allow them to run again after a break.
Total Term Limits: Limit the total number of terms a mayor can serve over their entire political career.

Successive term limits are often seen as a compromise, allowing for fresh perspectives while still retaining the option of experienced leadership in the future.

2.5. Term Limits by City Size

Term limits are more frequently found in larger cities. According to the ICMA data, where term limits are imposed:

54% impose a two-term limit
28% impose a three-term limit

This trend suggests that larger urban centers are more concerned about the potential risks associated with long-term incumbency.

2.6. Case Studies: Cities with Term Limits

Examining cities that have implemented term limits can provide valuable insights:

Los Angeles: The mayor is limited to two terms.
Chicago: No term limits for the mayor.
Houston: The mayor is limited to two terms.
New York City: The mayor is limited to two consecutive terms, with the possibility of running again after a break.

These examples illustrate the variety of approaches to term limits across major U.S. cities.

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3. What Are the Pros and Cons of Term Limits?

Term limits are a subject of ongoing debate. Proponents argue that they promote fresh perspectives and reduce the potential for corruption, while opponents claim they restrict voters’ choices and deprive cities of experienced leadership.

3.1. Pros of Term Limits

Reduced Abuse of Power: Term limits prevent mayors from becoming entrenched and potentially abusing their authority.
Encourages New Political Participation: Term limits create opportunities for newcomers to enter the political arena.
Brings Fresh Perspectives: New leaders can bring innovative ideas and approaches to governance.
Increased Accountability: Term limits ensure regular turnover, keeping mayors accountable to the electorate.

These benefits make term limits an attractive option for those seeking to promote good governance and citizen engagement.

3.2. Cons of Term Limits

Infringement on Democratic Process: Term limits restrict citizens’ ability to choose the candidate they believe is most qualified.
Loss of Experienced Leadership: Term limits can force out effective mayors who have valuable knowledge and expertise.
Potential for Inefficient Governance: New mayors may require time to learn the ropes, leading to short-term inefficiencies.
Focus on Short-Term Gains: Mayors facing term limits may prioritize short-term achievements over long-term planning.

These drawbacks highlight the potential costs of term limits in terms of experience and stability.

3.3. Academic Research on Term Limits

Research on the effects of term limits is mixed. Some studies suggest that term limits lead to:

Increased Legislative Turnover: Term limits do increase the number of new legislators.
Changes in Policy Outcomes: Some research indicates that term limits can influence policy decisions.
Mixed Impact on Government Efficiency: The impact of term limits on government efficiency is not clear-cut.

For example, a study by the National Conference of State Legislatures found that term limits can lead to increased staff influence and a shift in power dynamics within legislatures.

3.4. Expert Opinions on Term Limits

Experts hold differing views on term limits.

Proponents: Argue that term limits are necessary to prevent corruption and promote citizen engagement.
Opponents: Contend that term limits undermine democracy and deprive governments of experienced leaders.

These diverse opinions reflect the complex trade-offs involved in implementing term limits.

3.5. Alternatives to Term Limits

If term limits are not the preferred approach, there are alternative ways to ensure accountability and good governance:

Vigorous Electoral Competition: Encouraging strong challengers to run against incumbents.
Ethics Reform: Strengthening ethics laws and enforcement mechanisms.
Transparency Measures: Increasing transparency in government operations.
Citizen Oversight Committees: Establishing committees to monitor government activities.

These alternatives can help maintain accountability without restricting voters’ choices.

3.6. Comparing Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

To provide a balanced perspective, here’s a table summarizing the pros and cons of term limits:

Pros	Cons
Reduces abuse of power	Infringement on democratic process
Encourages new political participation	Loss of experienced leadership
Brings fresh perspectives	Potential for inefficient governance
Increased accountability	Focus on short-term gains

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4. How Do City Charters and Ordinances Define Term Lengths and Limits?

City charters and ordinances are key documents that define the structure and powers of municipal government, including the term lengths and limits for mayors.

4.1. Role of City Charters

A city charter is a foundational document that outlines:

Form of Government: The type of government structure (e.g., mayor-council, council-manager).
Powers and Duties: The responsibilities and authority of elected officials.
Election Procedures: Rules governing elections, including term lengths and limits.
Amendment Process: How the charter can be changed.

City charters provide a comprehensive framework for governing the municipality.

4.2. Role of City Ordinances

City ordinances are laws enacted by the local government that address specific issues and regulations. Ordinances can:

Implement Charter Provisions: Provide detailed rules and procedures to carry out the charter’s provisions.
Address Local Issues: Regulate various aspects of community life, such as zoning, traffic, and public safety.
Set Term Limits: Establish or modify term limits for elected officials.
Define Election Procedures: Specify the details of how elections are conducted.

Ordinances are more flexible than charters and can be amended more easily.

4.3. Examples of Charter Provisions

Here are some examples of how city charters define term lengths and limits:

“The mayor shall serve a term of four years, commencing on the first Monday in January following the election.”
“No person shall be eligible to hold the office of mayor for more than two consecutive terms.”
“The city council may, by ordinance, establish term limits for elected officials, provided that any such ordinance shall be approved by a majority of voters in a referendum.”

These provisions illustrate the range of approaches cities take in defining term lengths and limits.

4.4. Examples of City Ordinances

Here are some examples of city ordinances related to term limits:

“Ordinance No. 2023-123: An ordinance establishing a two-term limit for the office of mayor, effective January 1, 2024.”
“Ordinance No. 2022-456: An ordinance amending the city charter to allow the mayor to serve up to three consecutive terms.”
“Ordinance No. 2021-789: An ordinance repealing term limits for the office of mayor, subject to voter approval in a referendum.”

These ordinances demonstrate the dynamic nature of term limits and the ability of local governments to adjust them.

4.5. How to Find Your City’s Charter and Ordinances

To learn about your city’s charter and ordinances, you can:

Visit the City Clerk’s Office: The city clerk is the official custodian of municipal records.
Check the City Website: Many cities post their charters and ordinances online.
Contact Your Local Library: Libraries often have copies of local government documents.
Use Online Legal Databases: Services like Municode and LexisNexis provide access to municipal codes.

By accessing these resources, you can gain a better understanding of how your city is governed.

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5. What is the Impact of Mayoral Term Lengths and Limits on City Governance?

The length of a mayoral term and the presence of term limits can significantly impact the way a city is governed. These factors influence policy-making, leadership styles, and the overall stability of municipal government.

5.1. Impact on Policy-Making

Longer Terms: Mayors with longer terms can initiate and implement long-term projects and policies, fostering stability and strategic planning.
Shorter Terms: Mayors with shorter terms may focus on quick wins and responsive governance, potentially leading to more frequent policy changes.
Term Limits: Term limits can encourage new policy ideas and prevent stagnation, but also may result in a loss of institutional knowledge.

The policy-making process is directly affected by the tenure and potential limitations of the mayoral office.

5.2. Impact on Leadership Styles

Longer Terms: Mayors with longer terms can develop deeper relationships with city staff and community leaders, fostering collaboration and trust.
Shorter Terms: Mayors with shorter terms might prioritize public engagement and responsiveness, potentially leading to more consultative leadership styles.
Term Limits: Term limits may encourage mayors to focus on legacy-building projects, while also possibly leading to a shorter-term perspective.

Leadership styles can vary based on term length and the presence of term limits, impacting how a mayor approaches their role.

5.3. Impact on City Stability

Longer Terms: Longer mayoral terms can provide stability and continuity in city governance, allowing for consistent implementation of policies.
Shorter Terms: Shorter terms can lead to more frequent changes in leadership, potentially disrupting established projects and initiatives.
Term Limits: Term limits can create predictable transitions in leadership, but may also result in a loss of experienced leaders who could have provided stability.

City stability is influenced by the balance between continuity and change, which is shaped by term lengths and limits.

5.4. Examples of Impact on Governance

City A (Longer Terms): Has a mayor with a four-year term who has successfully implemented a long-term economic development plan, resulting in job growth and increased investment.
City B (Shorter Terms): Has a mayor with a two-year term who focuses on addressing immediate community needs, such as improving public safety and infrastructure.
City C (Term Limits): Has a mayor limited to two terms, who prioritizes establishing a lasting legacy through innovative environmental policies.

These examples illustrate how different term lengths and limits can lead to varied outcomes in city governance.

5.5. The Role of Public Opinion

Public opinion plays a critical role in shaping term lengths and limits.

Voter Preferences: Voters may support longer terms for mayors who are seen as effective and trustworthy.
Demand for Change: Public dissatisfaction with a mayor can lead to calls for shorter terms or term limits.
Referendums: Many cities require voter approval for changes to term lengths or limits through referendums.

Understanding public sentiment is essential for making informed decisions about mayoral term structures.

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6. How Do Different States Regulate Mayoral Terms?

While mayoral terms are primarily determined at the local level, some states have laws that influence or regulate these terms. State regulations can impact term lengths, term limits, and other aspects of mayoral governance.

6.1. State Laws on Term Lengths

Some states set default term lengths for mayors, which apply unless a city charter or ordinance specifies otherwise. For example:

State A: Requires all cities to have four-year mayoral terms unless a local charter provides for a different term length.
State B: Allows cities to choose between two-year and four-year terms, but requires a referendum for any changes to the term length.
State C: Does not regulate mayoral term lengths, leaving the decision entirely to local governments.

These state laws create a framework within which cities can determine their mayoral term structures.

6.2. State Laws on Term Limits

Some states also regulate or prohibit term limits for mayors. For example:

State X: Prohibits cities from imposing term limits on elected officials, including mayors.
State Y: Allows cities to establish term limits, but requires a supermajority vote of the city council and voter approval in a referendum.
State Z: Does not regulate term limits, leaving the decision entirely to local governments.

These state laws influence the extent to which cities can limit mayoral terms.

6.3. Examples of State Regulations

California: Does not have state laws regulating mayoral term lengths or limits, leaving these decisions to local governments.
Texas: Allows cities to set term limits through their charters, but does not mandate or prohibit them at the state level.
Florida: Does not have state laws regulating mayoral term lengths or limits, deferring to local control.

These examples illustrate the variety of approaches states take in regulating mayoral terms.

6.4. Impact of State Regulations

State regulations can have a significant impact on city governance:

Consistency: State laws can ensure consistency in term lengths and limits across all cities in the state.
Local Control: States that defer to local control allow cities to tailor their governance structures to their specific needs.
Political Debates: State regulations on term limits can be a source of political debate and legal challenges.

Understanding state regulations is crucial for navigating the complexities of mayoral governance.

6.5. The Role of State Constitutions

State constitutions can also influence mayoral terms by:

Defining Home Rule: Granting cities the power to govern themselves without state interference.
Setting Election Procedures: Establishing rules for elections, including term lengths and limits.
Protecting Voting Rights: Ensuring that all citizens have the right to participate in elections.

State constitutions provide the foundational legal framework for mayoral governance.

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7. What Are the Legal Challenges to Term Limits?

Term limits have faced numerous legal challenges, often based on arguments that they violate constitutional rights or exceed the authority of local governments. Understanding these legal challenges is important for assessing the validity and enforceability of term limits.

7.1. Constitutional Challenges

Term limits have been challenged on several constitutional grounds:

First Amendment: Claiming that term limits restrict voters’ freedom of choice and association.
Fourteenth Amendment: Arguing that term limits violate the equal protection rights of voters and candidates.
Qualifications Clauses: Asserting that term limits impose additional qualifications for office beyond those specified in the Constitution.

These constitutional challenges raise fundamental questions about the scope of government power and the rights of citizens.

7.2. Court Cases on Term Limits

Several court cases have addressed the legality of term limits:

U.S. Term Limits, Inc. v. Thornton (1995): The Supreme Court ruled that states cannot impose term limits on members of Congress, as the Constitution sets the qualifications for federal office.
Local Cases: Numerous state and local court cases have addressed the validity of term limits for state and local officials, with varying outcomes depending on the specific legal context.

These court cases provide important precedents for evaluating the legality of term limits.

7.3. Arguments Against Term Limits

Legal arguments against term limits often include:

Undue Restriction on Voters: Term limits prevent voters from choosing the candidate they believe is most qualified.
Infringement on Fundamental Rights: Term limits violate the rights of voters and candidates to participate in the political process.
Lack of Constitutional Authority: Term limits exceed the authority of local governments to regulate elections.

These arguments highlight the potential legal pitfalls of term limits.

7.4. Arguments Supporting Term Limits

Legal arguments in favor of term limits often include:

Promoting Good Governance: Term limits prevent corruption and encourage new leadership.
Ensuring Accountability: Term limits keep elected officials responsive to the electorate.
Exercising Local Control: Term limits are a valid exercise of local government authority to regulate elections.

These arguments emphasize the potential benefits of term limits for improving governance.

7.5. The Role of State Attorneys General

State attorneys general often play a crucial role in:

Issuing Legal Opinions: Providing guidance on the legality of term limits.
Defending Term Limits: Representing the state in legal challenges to term limits.
Enforcing Term Limits: Ensuring that term limits are properly implemented and enforced.

State attorneys general help shape the legal landscape surrounding term limits.

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8. How Do Mayoral Term Lengths and Limits Compare Internationally?

Mayoral term lengths and limits vary significantly around the world, reflecting different political systems, cultural norms, and historical contexts. Comparing these international practices can provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches to mayoral governance.

8.1. Term Lengths Around the World

Canada: Mayoral terms typically range from three to four years, depending on the province and municipality.
United Kingdom: Mayors are often ceremonial figures with limited executive power, and their terms are typically one year.
France: Mayors serve six-year terms and have significant executive authority at the local level.
Germany: Mayors serve terms ranging from five to eight years, depending on the state.
Japan: Mayors serve four-year terms and play a key role in local governance.

These examples illustrate the diversity of mayoral term lengths around the world.

8.2. Term Limits Around the World

Canada: Term limits for mayors are rare.
United Kingdom: Term limits for mayors are not applicable due to the ceremonial nature of the role.
France: Term limits for mayors are not common, but there is increasing debate about their potential benefits.
Germany: Term limits for mayors are generally not imposed.
Japan: Term limits for mayors are not common.

The prevalence of term limits varies across different countries and regions.

8.3. Factors Influencing International Practices

Several factors influence mayoral term lengths and limits:

Political System: The overall structure of government (e.g., parliamentary, presidential) shapes the role of mayors and their terms.
Cultural Norms: Cultural attitudes toward leadership and governance influence the acceptance of term limits.
Historical Context: Past experiences with corruption or abuse of power can lead to the adoption of term limits.
Decentralization: The degree of autonomy granted to local governments affects their ability to set term lengths and limits.

Understanding these factors provides context for comparing international practices.

8.4. Case Studies: International Examples

London, United Kingdom: The Mayor of London serves a four-year term and has significant powers over transportation, planning, and economic development.
Paris, France: The Mayor of Paris serves a six-year term and plays a key role in shaping the city’s policies and priorities.
Tokyo, Japan: The Governor of Tokyo (equivalent to a mayor) serves a four-year term and oversees the administration of the city.

These case studies illustrate the diverse roles and responsibilities of mayors in different countries.

8.5. Lessons Learned from International Comparisons

Comparing mayoral term lengths and limits internationally provides several valuable lessons:

No One-Size-Fits-All Approach: The optimal term length and presence of term limits depend on the specific context and goals of the local government.
Importance of Local Control: Allowing local governments to determine their own term structures can foster innovation and responsiveness.
Need for Accountability Mechanisms: Whether or not term limits are in place, it is essential to have robust accountability mechanisms to prevent corruption and ensure good governance.

These lessons can inform debates about mayoral governance in the United States and elsewhere.

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9. What Are the Potential Reforms to Mayoral Term Structures?

Given the ongoing debates about mayoral term lengths and limits, there are several potential reforms that could be considered to improve the effectiveness and accountability of local governance.

9.1. Staggered Terms

Staggered terms involve dividing the city council or other governing body into classes, with only a portion of the members up for election in any given year. This can provide:

Continuity: Ensuring that there is always a core group of experienced members on the council.
Stability: Reducing the risk of sudden shifts in policy direction.
Expertise: Preserving institutional knowledge and expertise within the council.

Staggered terms can be combined with term limits to strike a balance between continuity and change.

9.2. Hybrid Term Limits

Hybrid term limits combine elements of both traditional term limits and no term limits. For example:

Allowing Re-election After a Break: Mayors could be allowed to serve multiple terms, but only if they take a break between terms.
Establishing a Lifetime Limit: Mayors could be limited to a certain number of total terms, regardless of whether they are served consecutively.

Hybrid term limits can provide flexibility while still preventing long-term incumbency.

9.3. Citizen Review Boards

Citizen review boards provide independent oversight of local government operations. These boards can:

Investigate Complaints: Review allegations of misconduct by elected officials and city staff.
Make Recommendations: Propose changes to policies and procedures to improve transparency and accountability.
Promote Public Engagement: Encourage citizen participation in local government.

Citizen review boards can enhance accountability without restricting voters’ choices.

9.4. Ethics Reforms

Ethics reforms aim to prevent corruption and conflicts of interest among elected officials. These reforms can include:

Strengthening Disclosure Requirements: Requiring officials to disclose their financial interests and potential conflicts of interest.
Establishing Independent Ethics Commissions: Creating bodies to investigate ethics complaints and enforce ethics laws.
Prohibiting Gifts and Favors: Restricting the ability of officials to accept gifts and favors from lobbyists and other interested parties.

Ethics reforms can help maintain integrity in local government.

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Online transparency portals provide citizens with access to information about city government operations. These portals can include:

Budget Documents: Allowing citizens to review city revenues and expenditures.
Contracts and Agreements: Providing access to contracts between the city and private vendors.
Meeting Minutes: Publishing minutes of city council and committee meetings.
Lobbying Disclosures: Requiring lobbyists to disclose their activities and expenditures.

Online transparency portals can promote accountability and citizen engagement.

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10. How Can Citizens Get Involved in Shaping Mayoral Term Structures?

Citizens can play a crucial role in shaping mayoral term structures by participating in local government decision-making processes and advocating for reforms that promote effective and accountable governance.

10.1. Voting in Elections

The most direct way for citizens to influence mayoral term structures is by voting in elections. By supporting candidates who share their views on term lengths and limits, citizens can help elect leaders who will implement those policies.

10.2. Attending City Council Meetings

City council meetings provide an opportunity for citizens to:

Learn About Proposed Changes: Hear presentations and discussions about potential changes to mayoral term structures.
Express Their Opinions: Share their views with city council members and other decision-makers.
Ask Questions: Get clarification on the potential impacts of proposed changes.

Attending city council meetings can help citizens stay informed and engaged in local government.

10.3. Contacting Elected Officials

Citizens can contact their elected officials directly to express their views on mayoral term structures. This can be done through:

Emails: Sending emails to city council members and the mayor.
Phone Calls: Calling the offices of elected officials.
Letters: Writing letters to elected officials.
In-Person Meetings: Scheduling meetings with elected officials to discuss their concerns.

Contacting elected officials can help ensure that their voices are heard.

10.4. Joining Advocacy Groups

Advocacy groups work to promote specific policy goals and influence government decision-making. Citizens can join advocacy groups that focus on:

Promoting Term Limits: Working to establish or strengthen term limits for elected officials.
Opposing Term Limits: Arguing against term limits and advocating for local control over mayoral term structures.
Promoting Good Governance: Advocating for ethics reforms, transparency measures, and other policies to improve the effectiveness and accountability of local government.

Joining advocacy groups can amplify their voices and increase their impact on policy decisions.

10.5. Participating in Referendums

Many cities require voter approval for changes to mayoral term structures through referendums. Citizens can participate in these referendums by:

Registering to Vote: Ensuring that they are eligible to vote in local elections.
Learning About the Issues: Researching the proposed changes to mayoral term structures.
Voting in the Referendum: Casting their ballot in favor of or against the proposed changes.

Participating in referendums can help shape the future of local government.

10.6. Staying Informed

Staying informed about local government issues is essential for effective citizen engagement. Citizens can stay informed by:

Reading Local News: Following local news outlets for coverage of city government.
Visiting the City Website: Checking the city website for information about upcoming meetings, proposed changes, and other important issues.
Following Elected Officials on Social Media: Monitoring the social media accounts of elected officials for updates and announcements.

By staying informed, citizens can be better prepared to participate in local government decision-making processes.

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FAQ: Mayoral Term Lengths and Limits

1. What is a mayoral term?

A mayoral term refers to the length of time a mayor serves in office before