Tampa, Florida, operates under a strong mayor–council form of government, dividing responsibilities between an elected mayor and a city council.

Mayor’s Office

The mayor serves as the chief executive officer, overseeing city departments and implementing policies and ordinances enacted by the city council. Elected to a four-year term, the mayor holds significant authority over daily operations.

City Council

The Tampa City Council functions as the legislative branch, enacting ordinances, resolutions, and policies guiding the city’s development and operations. It comprises seven members: three elected at-large (citywide) and four representing specific geographic districts. Council members serve four-year terms, with elections held concurrently every four years.

As of May 2023, the council members are:

• District 1 (At-large): Alan Clendenin
• District 2 (At-large): Guido Maniscalco
• District 3 (At-large): Lynn Hurtak
• District 4 (South Tampa): Bill Carlson
• District 5 (East Tampa): Gwendolyn Henderson
• District 6 (West Tampa): Charlie Miranda
• District 7 (North Tampa): Luis Viera

The council elects a chair and a chair pro-tempore from among its members to lead meetings and represent the council in various capacities.

City Departments and Administration

Tampa’s municipal operations are managed through various departments, each overseen by appointed directors. These departments handle functions such as public safety, public works, parks and recreation, and economic development. The city’s organizational structure is designed to facilitate efficient service delivery and effective governance.

County Government

Tampa is the county seat of Hillsborough County. The county government operates separately from the city government and is overseen by the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners, consisting of seven members: four elected from single-member districts and three elected countywide. The county government provides services to unincorporated areas and collaborates with municipal governments like Tampa’s on regional issues.

Intergovernmental Relations

The Office of Government Affairs in Tampa promotes the city’s interests with state and federal legislators and executive agencies. It develops the city’s legislative goals, coordinates advocacy tactics, and ensures communication between elected officials and the city administration.

This governance framework enables Tampa to address local needs effectively while collaborating with county, state, and federal entities on broader initiatives.