Forms of Local Government

Not every city is run the same way.

Learn the five main forms of local government used in the United States and how they affect who makes decisions in your community.

forms of Local government

COUNCIL-MANAGER GOVERNMENT

Residents elect the City Council.

The City Council hires a professional City Manager to run the city’s daily operations.

Common in:

MAYOR-COUNCIL GOVERNMENT

Residents elect both the Mayor and the City Council.

The Mayor has executive authority and oversees city government.

Common in:

COMMISSION GOVERNMENT

Residents elect commissioners who both manage departments and make laws.

Example: Portland, Oregon (historically)

TOWN MEETING

Residents gather together to vote directly on local decisions.

Common in some small New England towns.

REPRESENTATIVE TOWN MEETING

Residents elect representatives who attend town meetings and vote on behalf of the community.

Found primarily in New England municipalities.

Question	Council-Manager	Mayor- Council
who runs daily operations?	City Manager	Mayor
who hires department directors?	City Manager	Mayor (typically)
who prepares the budget?	City Manager	Mayor
who sets city policy?	City Council	City Council
who elects the executive?	Council hires City Manager	Residents elect Mayor

The form of government affects:

Understanding your city’s structure makes it easier to know who to contact when you have a question or concern.

Why do different cities use different systems?

Cities choose the form of government that best fits their history, laws, and local preferences.

Can a city change its form of government?

Yes. Depending on state law and the city’s charter, residents may vote to adopt a different form of government.

Which form is most common?

The Council-Manager form is the most common among U.S. municipalities, especially medium and large cities.