Changing Forms of Government

Since the first election of a Mayor/Alderperson governing body in 1856, the City of Cedar Rapids has had three different forms of government structure. Each mark our ongoing commitment to exploring governance that meets our community’s present needs.

Until 1908, Cedar Rapids operated under the nationally popular “Ward” form of government. In this model, the mayor wielded strong powers, collaborating with alders representing different sections of the city known as wards. While effective for its era, the model received criticism nationally for its potential to foster political division.

By 1908, Cedar Rapids voters were looking for a new way to run their growing city. They approved the “Commission” form of government, a growing trend nationally. Elected commissioners oversaw specific City areas: Streets, Parks, Public Safety, and Finance, working with a Mayor overseeing Public Affairs. Under this form, any member of the public could be elected as the director of a department like Public Works. In contrast, today, the Public Works Director has a very specific job description, requiring engineering experience among other highly technical skills.

The Commission form was not without its challenges. Cedar Rapids voters attempted twice to switch to a new form of government — in 1965 and again in 1996 — without success. The turning point came in 2006, when voters adopted a Home Rule Charter using the “Council-Manager” form of government.

The Council-Manager model benefits from the emphasis on professional city management and minimized influence of changing politics over the administrative process. This system fosters an effective relationship between the Mayor, Council, and City Manager — ensuring responsive and efficient governance.