The City of Newport News is administered by a Council-Manager form of government in which six citizens are elected from three districts – North, Central, and South - to serve on the City Council. The Mayor is elected-at-large. The City Council establishes the City’s public policy through resolutions and ordinances, approves proposed programs, and controls the funding of these programs. City Council is guided by the City Charter; as adopted and approved by the Virginia General Assembly, and by its own rules of procedure, resolutions and ordinances. City Council makes decisions after obtaining input from citizens and staff.

The City Manager, City Attorney and City Clerk are appointed by the City Council and department heads are appointed by the City Manager. As chief administrative officer of the City, the City Manager oversees the work of all City departments and offices and administers the policies established by City Council.