Boardman operates under the Council-Manager form of government. The City Councilors (six) are elected by the voters. The Mayor is elected separately by the voters and has the same responsibilities as other Councilors. The manager is appointed by the Council and reports to the Mayor.
The City Council is charged with establishing policy and the Manager, through Department Heads and staff implements the policy. The Manager's duties include:
- Providing the Council with complete, unbiased information to allow informed decisions
- Periodic updates to the Council regarding the operation and affairs of the City
- Developing, preparing, and presenting the Annual Budget
- Monitoring the Annual Budget
- Developing criteria for implementing Council goals
- Overall operation of the City