El Paso operates under a mayor-council form of government. The mayor is elected every four years; the eight council members are also elected and serve staggered twoor four-year terms. The city manager oversees operations. Residents, who are appointed by the council or the mayor, serve as volunteers on a variety of boards and commissions that help to steer the direction of municipal issues.
Head Official: Mayor Joe Wardy (since 2003; current term expires May 2007)
Total Number of City Employees: 6,500 (2005)
City Information: City of El Paso, 2 Civic Center Plaza, El Paso, TX, 79901; telephone (915)541-4000
