Savannah's City government adopted a council/manager form of government in 1954.
Otis S. Johnson became Savannah's Mayor in 2004. The current City Council, which consists of the Mayor and eight Aldermen, levies taxes, enacts ordinances, adopts the annual budget, and appoints the City Manager.
The City Manager is responsible for carrying out the policies and programs established by Council, recommending the annual budget and work programs, appointing bureau and department heads, and exercising general supervision and control over all employees of the City. Michael M. Brown has served as Savannah's City Manager since 1995.
THE MAYOR OF SAVANNAH SPEAKS
To achieve this vision, Mayor Otis S. Johnson is committed to:
Neighborhood Empowerment
We need more citizen input to the decision-making process of city government. I will work to provide more direct access for citizens to the mayor and council members through town hall meetings and use of the media.
Economic Development
We need a collaborative approach to keeping our local economy strong while improving education, training, job and business opportunities for those who have been economically less successful. We must reduce the poverty rate among families in our city. We must ensure that more people share in the prosperity that our area is experiencing.
Taking an aggressive and balanced approach to reducing crime
All citizens deserve to be and feel safe in their homes and on the streets. I will be a strong advocate for a balanced approach to reducing crime in our city. We NEED to send a message to all citizens that "If you commit a crime in Savannah, then you should be prepared to do time." We also need to address the social and economic conditions that breed criminal behavior.
Supporting our rich and diverse heritage and tourism activities
I will work to keep our tourism and convention industry strong. I will support continued funding for the diverse cultural and recreational activities supported by city government.
Keeping Savannah a strong hub of economic growth for the region and the state. I will work to improve and expand working relationships between the City and the Chatham County Commission and the other municipalities in the Chatham County. I will work to build relationships with the other counties in the "Coastal Empire." This includes the adjoining counties in South Carolina. Savannah is the economic engine that drives this region. We need to do more to make sure that Savannah promotes and benefits from the growth in the region.
Continuing work on road, flood and pollution projects
We need to monitor the expenditure of SPLOST* funds. I will work with the City Council to make sure that SPLOST funds are used efficiently for what they were approved for.
Savannah's City government adopted a council/manager form of government in 1954.
To achieve this vision, Mayor Otis S. Johnson is committed to:
