Hagerstown City Government

Hagerstown’s City Government has changed over the years to better serve the needs of its citizens. When first incorporated in 1762, the City used a moderator/commissioner type of government. In 1983, the position of City Administrator was established. Today, the City operates under a Council/Administrator form of government that includes:

• Mayor - The Mayor is the chief executive officer of the city and is responsible for the execution of city policies, laws and resolutions. The Mayor serves a four-year term.
• Council - The Council represents the citizens and voices the public’s opinions when setting policies, laws and resolutions. Since 1985, all members have been elected “at large” encouraging the council’s responsibility to all citizens regarding of specific ward. Members serve a four-year term.
• City Administrator - The City Administrator, appointed by the Mayor and Council, is the chief administrative officer of the City and is responsible for supervising the day-to-day management of both City employees and City operations.

To reach the Mayor, Council, or City Administrator, you may call (301) 766-4175.

A Citizen’s Forum: Your Comments and Concerns

The Hagerstown government makes itself accessible to the public and encourages the public to attend council meetings and hearings. In fact, during the Regular Sessions and Public Hearings, a time is specifically set aside for citizen comments, and citizens may address the council on any issue of concern. Upon arriving to a meeting, you should sign the “Citizen Comments Sign-Up Sheet” which is located outside of the council chamber. The Mayor will begin the meeting and then call those names on the sign up sheet that wish to speak. A citizen does not need to prepare written statement or make a formal speech; however, written comments are always appreciated. Those comments may be provided to the City Clerk who will enter as part of the official record.

The City of Hagerstown finds your input vital to our process. Please call the City Clerk at (301) 739-8577, Ext. 113 to be put on the Mayor & City Council agenda.

How To Participate

The Mayor & City Council rely on numerous citizen boards and commissions in a planning and advisory capacity. These boards and commissions have the authority and responsibility to make findings of fact, express opinions and make recommendations to the Mayor and Council within the areas of responsibility assigned to such boards.

Interested citizens may apply to serve on a Board or Commission. Applications may be obtained from the City’s website or by contacting the City Clerk’s office at (301) 739-8577, Ext. 113. For more information, please feel free to contact the City’s Communications Officer at (301) 739-8577, Ext. 819.