Seattle's Form of Government
Seattle is designated as a first-class Charter City under RCW 35.01.010, operating under a Mayor-Council form of government.
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Find out what "first-class," "Charter City," and "Mayor-Council form of government" mean at the Municipal Research and Services Center's City and Town Forms of Government and City and Town Classification.
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The Seattle City Charter embodies the fundamental principles of the City, defines the City's powers and duties, and guarantees certain rights to the people. The City Charter also sets forth the powers and duties of the City Council.
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City Departments and Offices are established by the Seattle Municipal Code, Title 3 and the City Charter.
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See all Seattle Elected Officials and their Terms of Office.