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Savannah City Government: How It Works

Savannah's City government operates under a council/manager form of government which was adopted in 1954.

This organizational plan places legislative responsibility for municipal government in a City Council and gives administrative or executive authority to the City Manager. The Council, which consists of the Mayor and eight Aldermen, levies taxes, enacts ordinances, and adopts the annual budget as well as performing other legislative functions. Six Aldermen are elected by district and two are elected Citywide for four-year terms, as is the Mayor.

City Council meetings are held on the 2nd floor of City Hall every other Thursday. The City Manager, who is appointed by the Mayor and Aldermen, carries out the programs and policies established by City Council. Additional duties of the City Manager include recommending the annual budget and work programs, appointing bureau and department heads, and exercising general supervision and control over all employees of the City.