On January 1, 2006, the City of San Diego's system of government changed from a City Manager form to a Strong Mayor form. The change, approved by city voters in November 2004, will exist on a five-year trial basis, after which voters will decide whether or not to make the shift permanent.

Under the new system the Mayor is the City's chief executive officer, similar to the governor or the president. The Council is the legislative body, providing checks and balances to the Mayor's new authority.

Two committees were established to address the details associated with the transition. The City Council Transition Committee was established by the City Council on April 18, 2005 and was composed of all City Councilmembers, not including the Mayor. This committee met frequently to develop recommendations, regarding how the new role of the Council will be implemented, within the parameters of the measure approved by the voters. The Citizens' Advisory Committee (CAC) was created by the City Council on March 1, 2005 and included 11 members. The purpose of this committee was to provide input and assistance to the Council throughout the transition process.

The City created this web page to give the public the opportunity to view all applicable documents and information related to the transition and the new form of government.