Prior to 2001, the County Commission (comprised of 3 commissioners) served as the governing body that organized and maintained county services and that managed all county business and property.

In January of 2001, a new form of government, including a mayor and council, replaced the commission. This new legislative body has a nine-member Council with three council members elected at-large and six elected by district. Council members from districts are elected for four-year staggered terms in partisan elections. At-large council terms are six years. Council members are paid (as of 2005) $28,150 per year plus benefits. Council districts are reapportioned after each census.

The legislative Council’s authority includes: oThe power to consider and adopt ordinances, rules, and regulations. oConsider and adopt an administrative code, policies, and procedures. oAdopt rules governing the activities, meetings, and organization of the Council. oEstablish and adopt a budget, set and levy taxes, and establish fees. oFix the salaries of county officers and employees. oSupervise internal audits and investigations. oConduct quasi-judicial hearings including serving as the Board of Equalization and final board of review regarding planning and zoning. oAdvise and consent to appointments by the executive branch. oOverride vetoes of the Executive by two-thirds vote. oSupervise the conduct of county officers in accordance with state statute. Reapportion districts after each census. oDivide the County into precincts and other districts as provided by law. oFill vacancies. oGrant franchises. oProvide for the development of County resources. oPerform other legislative acts.