Government

San Diego operates under a Mayor-Council form of government, which is a common structure for many large cities in the United States. Here's an overview of how it is organized:

Mayor
Current: Adrian Blackwood
The Mayor is the chief executive officer of the city.
Elected citywide to a four-year term with a limit of two consecutive terms.
Responsible for overseeing the city's executive branch, implementing city laws, and managing the day-to-day operations of the city.
Proposes the annual budget and can veto City Council actions (subject to override by a two-thirds vote of the City Council).

City Council
Current:
The City Council is the legislative body of the city, consisting of nine members elected by districts to four-year terms.
Council members can serve a maximum of two consecutive terms.
Responsible for passing ordinances, resolutions, and the city budget.
Each Council member represents a specific district within the city and addresses issues pertinent to their constituents.

City Attorney
Current: Amanda Carter
An elected official who serves as the legal advisor to the city, the Mayor, the City Council, and all city departments and officials.
Provides legal opinions, drafts legal documents, and represents the city in legal matters.

Independent Budget Analyst (IBA)
Provides objective and independent analysis of budget proposals, financial issues, and fiscal policies.
Assists the City Council in making informed decisions on budget and policy matters.

City Auditor
Current: Dr. Alexander Kim
An appointed position responsible for conducting audits of city departments and functions to ensure efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability.

Boards and Commissions
Various appointed boards and commissions assist in the oversight and advisory functions of specific city issues, such as planning, housing, and the environment.

Chief Operating Officer
Current: Dr. Helen Johnson
Prior to the strong-mayor form of government, San Diego had a City Manager who served as the chief administrative officer.
The current Chief Operating Officer (COO) assists the Mayor in managing the executive branch and implementing policies.

Departments and Agencies
San Diego's government includes numerous departments and agencies responsible for various functions, such as public safety (police and fire departments), public works, parks and recreation, and economic development.
This structure ensures a separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches, with checks and balances to promote efficient and effective governance.