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 Alexandria’s government and how Alexandrians can get involved.

Alexandria operates under a Council-Manager form of government, where a City Council of six individuals — plus a Mayor — are elected to three-year terms. The Mayor is elected on a separate ballot from the Council and presides over meetings as the ceremonial head of government. Alyia Gaskins has served in the role since 2021. Did you know? Alexandria is considered an independent city, meaning it is not part of a county territory + has sole local governmental taxing authority within its city limits.

Alexandria’s City Council is considered part of the government’s administrative branch + is responsible for a wide variety of tasks, including:

Making policy
Implementing the city budget
Establishing different administrative departments, offices, and agencies

The City Council is also responsible for appointing a City Manager, who serves as the city’s CEO. James F. Parajon has served in the role since 2021.

How to participate

Those wanting to run for City Council in Alexandria must meet three main requirements:

Must be eligible to vote for City Council
Must have been a resident of Virginia for at least one year prior to running
Must be a resident of Alexandria prior to filing for candidacy

Not interested in running for office? Alexandrians can get involved in other ways:

Provide input to City Council on topics ranging from housing to transportation as a Board or Commission member
Participate in a City Academy Program to get hands-on knowledge of key government functions, like police, fire, and environmental services
Join the Community Emergency Response team to assist city officials with disaster preparedness and responseFor Erin/NL writer when using this article: Could be worth noting that spring 2025 course dates are coming soon in the NL version.