The people of Evanston elect the aldermen, the mayor, and the city clerk. They may also alter their form of government and change the manner of selection and terms of office of elected and appointed officials through the referendum (direct initiative) process authorized by state statute (10 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/28).

The city council consists of the mayor and the 9 aldermen representing each of the city's wards. The council adopts legislation, sets policy, gives advice and consent to mayoral appointments, hires and fires the city manager, and approves the city budget. Regular meetings of the council are held 3 times per month and are open to the public.

The mayor represents the city at official functions and presides at city council meetings, with the authority to vote in case of a tie and under other limited circumstances. The mayor has veto power over ordinances and resolutions, subject to a two-thirds override vote. They are an ex officio member of all council committees and, with the approval of the council, appoint members to city boards, commissions, and committees.

The only full-time elected official in Evanston, the city clerk is the secretary to the city council, official custodian of the city code and public records, and the local election official for municipal elections. Voters may register in person at the clerk's office. Candidates for municipal office file their petitions with the city clerk. Signature requirements for each office are available on the clerk's web site.

There are currently 28 active boards, commissions, and committees and each reports to a standing committee of the city council. They are comprised of citizen volunteers, appointed by the Mayor, and perform administrative, advisory, or quasi-judicial functions.

The city manager is hired by the city council and is the chief executive officer of the city. They oversee the city's administrative departments and have the power to enforce all laws and ordinances. The city manager prepares the budget for consideration by city council.

These 11 departments conduct the the day-to-day administrative tasks of city government. Unionized employees are represented by AFSCME Local 1891, Evanston Fire Fighters Association Local 742, and the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council.

A central portal to interact with city government and services. Includes contact information, FAQs, and quick access to online services.

Use the Directory of Elected Officials to find the public officials who represent your household. For most officials, their contact information and term dates are also listed.

Contact information for department and division heads in the City of Evanston.