City Government Description

The City of Virginia Beach operates under a council-manager form of government. Voters elect a Mayor and eight council members who together set city policies and priorities. The Mayor is elected at large, while council members represent eight distinct districts across the city. The City Council appoints a professional City Manager, who serves as the chief administrative officer responsible for the day‑to‑day management of city operations, implementing the Council’s policies, and overseeing city departments.

Council meetings are typically held twice a month in public session, with opportunities for citizen input. Standing committees and special sub‑committees focus on key areas including finance, public safety, community development, economic growth, and the environment. The City Manager’s Office coordinates strategic planning and ensures cross‑departmental collaboration to address community priorities.

Virginia Beach’s government is structured to support essential services such as public safety (Police, Fire & EMS), public utilities (water, sewer, solid waste), public works (streets, stormwater, facilities), parks and recreation, libraries, and transit. The city is also home to higher education partnerships, regional economic development offices, and collaborative initiatives with the military, given its status as the nation’s largest naval base’s homeport.

Under the council‑manager model, elected officials focus on policy, strategic direction, and representing constituents, while the City Manager and professional staff handle administration, budgeting, staffing, and operational execution. This structure promotes accountability, professional management, and responsive citizen engagement.