Akureyrarbær Municipality

Akureyri is a town in Northern Iceland and the country's second largest urban area (after the Capital Region) and fifth largest municipality. Nicknamed the Capital of North Iceland, Akureyri is an important port and fishing center. The area where Akureyri is located was settled in the 9th century, but the town did not receive a municipal charter until 1786.  

In the early 21st century, fishing industries have become more important in Akureyri as two of the major fishing companies of Iceland have become a key source of revenue and are expected to grow further in coming years. The University of Akureyri, which was founded in 1987, is growing rapidly and is another important actor within the community.   

In the spring of 2009, the inhabitants of both Grímsey and Akureyri voted to unite their two communities under the town council of Akureyri, won by a great majority. The islands of Hrísey and Grímsey both are now under the council of the town of Akureyri. The Arctic Circle crosses Iceland at its northern most point, on the island Grímsey.  

Akureyri Town Council provides a variety of public services related to education, transportation and environment, organization and construction, welfare and family. The Town Council is responsible for the administration, budget, management, consulting, tourism, cultural institutions and events, sports, and many other activities. The mayor, Ásthildur Sturludóttir, is the head of the Town Council.