Portsmouth operates under a manager-council form of government. Nine council members are elected to two-year terms. The member receiving the largest number of votes becomes the mayor in any municipal election. The council retains the services of a full-time professional city manager.
Head Official: Mayor Evelyn F. Sirrell (since 1998; current term expires 2005)
Total Number of City Employees: 881 (2002)
City Information: Mayor's Office, City of Portsmouth, 1 Junkins Ave., Portsmouth, NH 03802-0628; telephone (603)610-7200