The City of Moreno Valley operates under a Council-Manager form of government. The City Council consists of five members: a Mayor who is elected at-large by all city voters, and four Council Members who are elected by the voters within their respective, geographically defined districts.
The City Council serves as the primary legislative and policy-making body, while a professionally appointed City Manager is responsible for the day-to-day administration of city operations and departments.
Moreno Valley contracts with Riverside County for several vital public services. Police services are provided by the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, and fire protection is contracted through the Riverside County Fire Department in conjunction with CAL FIRE. At the state and federal levels, Moreno Valley is represented in the California State Legislature and the United States House of Representatives, falling largely within the 41st Congressional District.

