The borough of New Cumberland exists under the Pennsylvania Borough Code which is a statue adopted by the Pennsylvania General Assembly as the basic law governing boroughs. The Borough is operated by a Council, a Mayor and appointed officials. Borough Council is the governing body. Seven Members of Council are elected at large for 4-year terms.
Council holds regular monthly meetings.
Council is responsible for levying taxes, enacting ordinances and resolutions, establishing policies, providing services and promoting the health, safety, and welfare of the Borough residents. The Mayor is also an elected position with a term of 4 years. Although not a member of the Borough Council, the Mayor may attend all Council meetings and take part in the discussions. The Mayor may cast the deciding vote when a tie occurs and may approve or veto every ordinance or resolution of legislative nature passed by Council. If the Mayor vetoes an ordinance or resolution, Council may override it with a two-thirds vote.