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Frequently Asked Questions Q: Who “runs” the City of San
Luis Obispo?
A: The short answer is: the citizens do. It is the citizens who elect the Mayor
and City Council to represent them, and council members and staff are ultimately
accountable to the citizenry. The longer answer is that the City Council establishes City
policies, goals, and priorities based on their collective view of the interests of the
community. City staff is headed by the City Administrative Officer (CAO), who reports
directly to the City Council. The CAO is responsible for assuring that Council policy and
goals are implemented and that the day-to-day operations of the City run smoothly. The CAO
is assisted by several department heads and other staff. For more information about the
City structure click on:
City Organization Chart
City Structure
Q: Does the City
have any special goals and priorities, and if so, what are they?
The City of San Luis Obispo has a very comprehensive and participatory way of
establishing its goals and priorities that is linked to the City’s two-year Financial
Plan and Budget. Once established, these “Major City Goals” are monitored by
staff with periodic status reports provided to the City Council and community. For more
information, view the Major City Goals.
Q: How can I get
more involved in my City government?
A: Residents have many
opportunities to offer their opinions and to actually participate in the activities and
programs of the City. Council meetings are open to the public and attendance and comments
are encouraged. In addition, the City has numerous commissions and committees that offer
advice to the City Council in such areas as land use, parks and recreation, cultural
heritage, human relations, and tourism promotion. These advisory bodies are composed of
community volunteers. For more information about how you can participate in your City
government, visit the City Council or City Clerk web pages. |
