The Town of Oro Valley employs the council-manager form of government. It combines the strong political leadership of elected officials with the strong managerial experience of an appointed professional local government manager. This model is used widely throughout the United States and by almost every local government in the state of Arizona.
In council-manager communities such as the Town of Oro Valley, the Mayor leads Town Council meetings, is a spokesperson for the community, facilitates communication among elected and appointed officials, assists the Town Council in setting goals and advocating policy positions, and serves as a promoter of the community.
The Town Manager is appointed to serve the Town Council and the community and to provide the benefits of training and experience in administering local government projects and programs. The Town Manager's responsibilities include: preparing a balanced budget for Town Council consideration, carrying out policies adopted by the Town Council, serving as the chief advisor to the Town Council, and recruiting, hiring and supervising Town staff.