Structure of Berkeley Government
Berkeley was incorporated on April 4, 1878, and the first Charter was adopted March 5, 1895. In 1923, Berkeley adopted the Council-Manager form of government.
The Berkeley City Council consists of eight Councilmembers, elected by districts for four-year terms, and one Mayor, elected "at large" for a four-year term. The Mayor is the President of the Council and votes as an individual ninth member.
Municipal elections are held every two years on the first Tuesday in November of even-numbered years; run-off elections are held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in February of the odd numbered year following the initial election.
The City Council is the legislative branch of Berkeley's municipal government, the people's elected representatives. Council meetings are open public meetings where the Council makes local laws, policies and basic decisions for the municipality.
The City Council appoints the City Manager whose responsibilities include enforcement of ordinances and preparation of the annual budget, along with administration and coordination of the City's operations. Except for the Auditor, who is an elected official, the City Manager appoints a staff member to head each Department to assist him or her in carrying out his or her duties.
For more information on the City Council, please visit the City Clerk Department.