The City of Richland’s day-to-day operations are overseen by the City Manager, who serves as the chief administrative officer of the general city government. The City Manager supervises all City departments and is responsible for the effective management of the administrative and financial affairs of the City. The City Manager is appointed to serve by the Richland City Council, a seven-member panel elected by the citizens of Richland.  

Each City department plays a role in the delivery of quality services to Richland residents. Certain departments serve in an operational capacity, such as Public Works, Parks & Public Facilities, and Energy Services, while others serve in a support role, such as the Assistant City Manager’s Office, the City Attorney, and the Administrative Services Department. The Richland Police Department and the Richland Fire Department are the City’s first responders, while Development Services guides the City’s physical growth. Although unique in the role they play, staff from each department work across division and department lines to accomplish the overall objectives of the City as envisioned by Richland City Council and articulated by the City Manager.