The City of Tulsa was incorporated in 1898, nine years before statehood. In 1908, Tulsa adopted its first city charter that outlined the processes of the city government. Under this charter, a board of commissioners including a mayor and four city commissioners enacted local policies for about 80 years. In 1989, Tulsans voted to change to a strong mayor-council form of government in an effort to create a more effective and representative city government.

Today, the elected officials of Tulsa include the mayor, the city auditor and nine city councilors. These separate offices allow for a checks and balances system that affirms responsible governance. Together, they serve the community's interests through adopting local laws, establishing and maintaining infrastructure and city funds and offering services and programs to benefit the public.