Set of governmental institutions that serve an urban area or urban municipality. All cities derive their existence from a larger political entity, either a state or national government. City government generally includes an executive (a mayor or manager) and a legislature (a council or commission), both of which may be subject to popular election. Their most important functions are the provision of services, including public safety, health care, education, recreation, housing, utilities, transportation, and cultural facilities. Revenues come from local taxes and fees as well as grants and subsidies from its state or national government.
This entry comes from Encyclopædia Britannica Concise.
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