Government

One of 22 cities in Pierce County and 281 cities in the State of Washington, University Place is the 4th largest city in the county and 33rd largest in the state. University Place incorporated in 1995 as a code city and operates under the Council-Manager form of government. As a code city, University Place retains the most local control allowed under the state constitution.

Government Structure

• University Place operates under a Council-Manager form of government. Under this form of government, the elected council is responsible for the mission and policy decisions of the government, while the manager carries out policy and directs operations.
• The City Council in University Place consists of seven elected Council Members. The Council Members work for the public, establishing the mission and vision for the City and setting policies to help accomplish the mission and vision. The Council is also responsible to collectively appoint a City Manager.
• The City Manager is responsible for the City’s management and administration. It is his or her duty to implement the policies established by the Council in a way that equitably serves all City residents. The City Manager coordinates the work of department heads and other staff to ensure smooth and efficient service delivery in University Place.
• Together, the Council and Manager work to improve the University Place quality of life and steer the community toward a bright future.

Aside from the City, University Place residents are also served at the local level by: