The City of Los Angeles is a Mayor-Council-Commission form of government, as originally
adopted by voters of the City of Los Angeles, effective July 1, 1925 and reaffirmed by a new
Charter effective July 1, 2000. A Mayor, City Controller, and City Attorney are elected by City
residents every four years. Fifteen City Council members representing fifteen districts are
elected by the people for four-year terms, for a maximum of two terms. Members of
Commissions are generally appointed by the Mayor, subject to the approval of the City Council.
General Managers of the various City departments are also appointed by the Mayor, subject to
confirmation by the City Council. Most employees of the City are subject to the civil service
provisions of the City Charter.
The new City Charter, effective July 2000, provided for the creation of a Citywide System of
Neighborhood Councils. The goal of the Neighborhoods Councils is to promote public
participation in City governance and decision-making process to create a government more
responsive to local needs.