The government of Salt Lake County is unique in that it has a partisan county mayor. 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. Mayor Nancy Workman’s administration governed from January 2001 to December 2004. During that time, Workman was mayor from January 2001 to September 2004. In September 2004, Nancy Workman was placed on paid administrative leave and the deputy mayor, Alan Dayton, was sworn in as acting mayor. Deputy Mayor Alan Dayton served as Acting Mayor until December 2004.

Overview of the Mayor’s office: The County Executive, called the Mayor, is elected at large and for a four-year term in partisan elections. Duties of the Mayor: •The direction and management of executive branch departments, including Public Works, Human Services, and Community and Support Services, but not including the executive activities of the independent elected officials. •Carrying out and enforcing the programs and policies established by the Council. •Enforcing the regulations, policies, and procedures of the County. •Faithfully executing the laws and ordinances of the County. •Assigning employees and work in the executive branch. •Appointing persons to serve on commissions and boards, with advice and consent. •Controlling County assets, funds, and property; preparing and presenting a budget to the Council. •Reviewing County books, accounts, and funds necessary to the executive function. •Negotiating and executing contracts. •Considering and adopting long-range planning. Acting as intergovernmental relations liaison, exercising power of veto and line item veto, and attending and participating in Council meetings.