Council-Manager Form of Government

What is the council-manager form of government?

Council-manager government combines the strong political leadership of elected officials with the strong managerial experience of an appointed manager or administrator. All power and authority to set policy rests with an elected governing body, which includes a mayor or chairperson and the members of the council, commission, or board. The governing body in turn hires a non-partisan manager who has very broad authority to run the organization.

Born out of the US progressive reform movement at the turn of the 20th century, the council-manager system was designed to combat corruption and unethical activity in local government by promoting effective management within a transparent, responsive, and accountable structure. The first City to adopt the council-manager form of government was Staunton, Virginia in 1917.

How does council-manager government work today?

The elected council represent their community and develop a long-range vision for its future. They establish policies that affect the overall operation of the community and are responsive to residents needs and wishes.


How can council-manager government benefit my community?

A city can benefit from the council-manager form of government in a number of important ways:

  • The form is flexible enough to adapt to local needs and demands.

Source: International City/County Management Association (ICMA)

For further information on the council-manager form of government, please see this document titled "Council-Manager Form of Government: Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)" provided by ICMA.