The City of Corvallis is governed by a representative government organized pursuant to a Home Rule charter adopted by voters in the 19th century and subsequently amended, the last time in 2017. The Charter establishes the Council/Manager form of government to carry out local governance for the community.
The nine member City Council is elected by ward to serve a two-year term as the governing body for Corvallis. The Mayor presides at Council meetings and is elected at-large for a four-year term.