City Council
The City of Kennewick has operated under the Council - Manager form of government since 1954. Central to the Council - Manager form of government is the belief that the separation of the policy making function and the administrative function increases efficiency and effectiveness of local government operations.

Responsibilities
Therefore the Council, elected by the citizens and accountable to them, is responsible for establishing policies, approving the budget, setting goals, and selecting a City Manager. In turn, the City Manager serves at the direction of the Council, is accountable to them, and is responsible for accomplishing these goals within the established budget through the proper performance of management duties.