One of the most important ways to become an engaged member of your community is by knowing how your local government works. We’re breaking down everything you need to know about Arlington’s government and how Arlingtonians can get involved.

Arlington operates under a County Manager government model, meaning that Arlington County exercises both city and county functions. Did you know? The county chose this form of government back in 1932 — the first county in the US to do so.

Arlington does not have a mayor; instead, a Board of five officials are elected to staggered four-year terms. Each year, the County Board selects a Chairman who serves as the chief administrative officer for the group + sets agendas for and presides over meetings.

The County Board is responsible for a wide variety of legislative tasks, including:

Making policy
Land use and zoning decisions
Setting real estate, personal property, and tax rates
Implementing the county budget

The Board is also responsible for hiring a County Manager, who oversees the county’s day-to-day operations with direction from the Board. Mark Schwartz has served in the role since 2016.

How to participate

Those wanting to run for public office in Arlington must meet two main requirements:

Must be eligible to vote for the office they are seeking
Must have been a resident of Virginia for at least one year prior to running

Not interested in running for office? Arlingtonians can get involved in other ways, such as representing their neighborhood as a member of one of its civic and citizen associations or by applying to serve on a county commission or advisory group. County commissions and advisory groups provide input to the County Board and Manager on specific topics ranging from economic development to sports.