Mankato has a Charter form of government with a Council/Manager plan. Citizens elect the City Council, which consists of one Council Member for each of the city's five wards, a Council Member at-large and a Mayor. The Council Member at-large serves as President of the Council. The Mayor is a member of the City Council and ceremonial leader of the city. Council Members serve staggered four-year terms. The City Council hires the City Manager who oversees the city's day-to-day operations.

Citizens are the Government
Make a difference in the Mankato community by serving local government. Apply to serve on any of the following citizen committees: Board of Review, Environmental Committee, Joint Civil Service Commission, Mass Transit User Group, Multi-Modal Committee and the Planning Commission. Learn more about these opportunities by calling Legal staff at (507) 387-8626 or applying online at www.ci.mankato.mn.us.

Mankato's City Flag
In 1991, a contest was held to design a city flag. A Mankato citizen created a design that represents Mankato:

• Resting at the convergence of the Blue Earth and Minnesota Rivers
• Designation as a Minnesota Star City (white star)
• Early access via steamboat travel
• Charter year
• Agriculture and park lands
• Historical blue copper (blue earth)

Miniature city flags are available at cost to cover what was spent to purchase them. For more information call (507) 387-8692