Somerville’s city government consists of the Office of the Mayor, the Board of Aldermen, the School Committee, a number of appointed boards and commissions, and the executive departments, such as the Department of Public Works, the Department of Traffic and Parking, etc. the Treasurer/Collector, etc.  

MAYOR’S OFFICE

The Mayor is elected every two years (on the odd year, e.g,, 2005, 2007, etc.) and is responsible for all executive decision making.  All city departments report to the Mayor and he appoints all members of boards and commissions. 

BOARD OF ALDERMEN 

The Board of Aldermen is the city’s legislative branch.  Members are elected every two years (also on the odd years.)   Four members serve at large.  Seven members represent individual wards.  The Board passes ordinances on a broad range of issues, from setting zoning laws to creating boards and commissions.  It also has the power to cut funds from the budget presented yearly by the Mayor. 

SCHOOL COMMITTEE

The School Committee oversees the city’s school system, working with Superintendent to set broad policies and developing a recommended budget for submission to the Mayor.  The Committee is composed of seven members elected by ward every two years (also on the odd years.).  The Mayor and the Board of Aldermen President are ex-officio members with full voting rights.  

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS 

Twenty-seven boards and commissions exist to advise or, in some cases, rule on important city business.  Members are appointed by the Mayor and approved by the Board of Aldermen.   

DEPARTMENTS

Day-to-day city operations are run by a number of departments, each with a director or commissioner reporting to the Mayor.