The City and County of San Francisco

The City and County of San Francisco (the City) was established by Charter in 1850 and is a legal subdivision of the State of California. It is the only consolidated city and county in the State, exercising the governmental powers of both a city and a county under California law. The City’s governance structure, codified in the City Charter of 1996, is similar in form to the federal government. The Mayor’s Office comprises the Executive branch, while the Board of Supervisors and Superior Court act as the Legislative and Judicial branches, respectively.

The Mayor and all 11 members of the Board of Supervisors serve four-year terms. Mayoral elections are held during odd-numbered years, while Board of Supervisors elections are held in even-numbered years. Elections for the Board of Supervisors are staggered, with five or six seats being open each election. Supervisors serve four-year terms, and any vacancies are filled by mayoral appointment. Both the Mayor and members of the Board of Supervisors are limited to two terms.

Each of the City’s 11 districts is represented by a member of the Board of Supervisors.

The Mayor appoints the heads of most city departments. Many departments are also advised by commissions or boards whose members are citizens appointed by the Mayor or, in some cases, by a combination of the Mayor, the Board of Supervisors, and other elected officials.

Elected officials include the Assessor-Recorder, City Attorney, District Attorney, Public Defender, Sheriff, Superior Court Judges, and Treasurer.