Government

New York City is governed under a charter adopted in 1975, effective in 1977. The charter was significantly revised in 1989, with changes taking place gradually until 1991. The board of estimate, which had administrative duties and prepared the budget, was abolished and the powers of the mayor and the city council were broadened.

The mayor, comptroller, and president of the city council are elected for four-year terms. The mayor recommends legislation and appoints many officials. Each of the five boroughs---Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island---elects a president for four years. The city council has 51 members (not including the president) elected for four years. The council members are elected from single-member districts.

Each borough is a separate county. There are a few county officials, but most county functions have been taken over by the city.