The Town of Kiawah Island operates under the Mayor-Council form of government. The Mayor and four Council Members comprise the Town Council, the Town's legislative body. Council sets policy, adopts ordinances and the annual budget, and provides oversight of Town operations. The Mayor presides over Council meetings and votes as a member of Council. Day-to-day administration of the Town is led by the Mayor, as the chief administrative officer, with assistance from the Town Administrator.
The Mayor and Council Members are elected at large to four-year terms in nonpartisan elections. They serve without compensation.
In addition to its legislative duties, the Council appoints the Town Attorney, Town Clerk, Town Treasurer, and Municipal Judge, and appoints residents to serve on the Town's boards, committees, and commissions.
