The City Manager shall be the chief executive officer and the head of the administrative branch of the City government. He shall be responsible to the Council for the proper administration of all affairs of the City and, to that end, subject to the personnel provisions of this Charter. He shall have power and shall be required to:
a. Appoint and remove all officers and employees of the Municipality, except as otherwise provided by this Charter;
b. Prepare a budget annually and submit it to Council and be responsible for its administration after adoption;
c. Prepare and submit to the Council, as of the end of the fiscal year, a complete report on the finances and administrative activities of the Municipality for the preceding year and such additional reports as the Council may require during the fiscal year;
d. Keep the Council advised of the financial condition and future needs of the Municipality and make such recommendation as may seem desirable to him;
e. See that all laws, ordinances and provisions of this Charter are enforced;
f. Attend all meetings of Council with the right to take part in discussions, but having no vote;
g. Perform such other duties as may be prescribed by this Charter or required of him by the Council, not inconsistent with this Charter;
h. Be in charge of and personally responsible for all purchasing made for the City;
i. Formulate and arrange contracts, franchises, and agreements subject to the approval of Council;
j. Sign all contracts, bonds and notes on behalf of the City;
k. Serve as an ex-officio member (without vote) of all Boards and Commissions authorized under this Charter, except the Civil Service Commission.