The City of San Mateo operates under a Council/Manager form of government. The Council as the legislative body, represents the entire community and is empowered by the City Charter to formulate Citywide policy. The five Council Members serve at large for four-year terms. The council selects Mayor from among the members each December for a one-year term.

The City Council meets the first and third Mondays of each month at 7:00pm in the City Council Chambers, 330 West 20th Avenue, San Mateo. In addition, the Council holds study sessions, usually prior to their regular meetings. The study sessions are designed to explore complex issues in depth. No action is taken at the study sessions. The public is invited and entitled to attend all public meetings of the City Council and its appointed Boards and Commissions.

The City Manager, appointed by the Council, serves as the chief executive officer and is responsible for the day-to-day administration of City affairs. The City Manager is responsible for many departments that provide services to the citizens of San Mateo.

The City Attorney, also appointed by the City Council, advises and represents the City and Council in all legal matters.

San Mateo, with a population of over 90,000, is the second largest city in San Mateo County. It is one of two cities in the county that is a charter city. The San Mateo City Charter formulates the basic rules for governing the city. The charter can be changed or additions made by amendments, which must be approved by a majority of the voters. San Mateo was incorporated as a city on September 4, 1894.

Boards and Commissions are appointed by the Council to seek and hear input from San Mateo's residents and businesses. Members make recommendations to the Council based upon public input.

Community residents interested in serving on a board or commission may obtain an application online.