Ayuntamiento vs. concejo municipal
The Spanish words 'ayuntamiento' and 'concejo municipal' both refer to local government bodies, but they have subtle differences in usage and regional preferences.
Ayuntamiento
'Ayuntamiento' is the most common term used in Spain for a city or town council. It refers to both the governing body and the building where it meets.
El ayuntamiento de Madrid ha aprobado un nuevo plan de movilidad urbana.
(The Madrid city council has approved a new urban mobility plan.)
La oficina de turismo está ubicada en el edificio del ayuntamiento.
(The tourist office is located in the city hall building.)
Concejo municipal
'Concejo municipal' is more commonly used in Latin American countries to refer to a municipal council or town council. It typically focuses on the governing body rather than the building.
El concejo municipal de Bogotá debatió sobre el presupuesto anual.
(The Bogotá city council debated the annual budget.)
Los miembros del concejo municipal fueron elegidos por voto popular.
(The members of the municipal council were elected by popular vote.)
Summary
While 'ayuntamiento' is predominantly used in Spain and can refer to both the council and its building, 'concejo municipal' is more common in Latin America and typically focuses on the governing body itself. Both terms essentially mean 'city council' or 'town council', but their usage varies by region and specific context.