the municipal secretary desktop reference manual - Southwestern ...

mandamus-(writ of) An order compelling public official(s) to do something or not do
something.
master plan-see comprehensive plan
merit rating-Determination of a rate for an individual risk on the basis of its variation in
hazard or experience from the average or standard for its class.
metes and bounds-A method of describing the boundaries of land by directions and
distances from a known point of reference.
microform-Any form containing greatly reduced images, or microimages, usually on
microfilm. Roll, or generally serialized, microforms include microfilm on reels, cartridges,
and cassettes. Flat, or generally unitized, microforms include microfiche, microfilm jackets,
aperture cards and opaque microcards.
mill-a term used to express the property tax rate; one-tenth of a cent, thus ten mils equals one
cent or one-percent.
minutes-A summary of action taken at a meeting and the vote on each item.
misfeasance-The performing of a lawful act in an unlawful manner.
mixed use-More than one zoning use in a designated area, i.e., light industrial, residential,
commercial.
modified accrual accounting-A basis of accounting in which revenues are recorded when
collectible within the current period or soon enough thereafter to be used to pay liabilities of
the current period, and expenditures which are recognized when the related liability is
incurred.
motion-A statement of intent by the governing body.
municipal authority-Special purpose public corporations, with no general police powers
and no taxing powers, created by one or more local governments to carry on a specific
function(s) outside the regular governmental structure. An authority may be formed by a
municipality, school district or county, but when it has been formed, it becomes a separate
corporation. Authorities may issue fees and receive revenues through user fees.
mylar-see linen
negligence-Failure to exercise prudent care.
non-conforming-A use which does not comply with present zoning conditions but which
existed lawfully and was created in good faith prior to the enactment of the zoning
provisions.
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