Government of Oklahoma City facts for kids

The City of Oklahoma City has a special way of running its government, called the council-manager system. This system has been in place since 1927. It helps make sure the city's daily operations are handled well, while also allowing citizens to have a say through elected leaders.

Understanding Oklahoma City's Government

Oklahoma City uses a type of government known as the council-manager system. In this system, there are two main parts: elected officials and a professional manager. The elected officials, like the mayor and city council members, make important decisions and set the rules for the city. A city manager is then hired to carry out these decisions and manage the city's day-to-day activities.

What is a Council-Manager System?

A council-manager system is a popular way for many cities in the United States to organize their government. It combines the idea of having elected leaders who represent the people with the need for expert management of city services.

How it Works in Oklahoma City

In Oklahoma City, citizens vote for a mayor and eight city council members. These nine people form the city's main decision-making body. Their job is to listen to the community, decide on important policies, and approve the city's budget.

• The Mayor: The mayor is the leader of the city council. They help guide meetings and represent Oklahoma City at different events.
• The City Council: The eight city council members each represent a different part of the city, called a ward or district. They bring the concerns of their neighborhoods to the council meetings.
• The City Manager: The mayor and city council work together to choose a city manager. This person is like the chief executive officer (CEO) of the city. They are a trained professional who knows how to run a large organization. The city manager oversees all the city departments, like police, fire, parks, and public works. They make sure services are delivered efficiently and that the city's policies are put into action.

Where City Leaders Work

The main offices for Oklahoma City's administrative staff and elected officials are located in the historic city hall. This important building is found in the downtown area, on the western edge of the central business district. It's where many of the city's important decisions are made and where the daily work of running the city takes place.