Oklahoma City operates under a Council-Manager form of government. The Mayor is elected at-large and serves as the political head of the city, while the City Council consists of eight members, each elected from and representing a specific geographic ward. The day-to-day operations and administration of city services are handled by an appointed City Manager.
As the state capital, Oklahoma City is also the seat of state government, housing the Oklahoma State Capitol, the Governor's office, and the state legislature. The presence of state agencies makes the government a major facet of the local economy and civic life. The city provides a comprehensive array of public services, including the highly regarded local police and fire departments, and operates extensive parks and recreation programs.