The City of Frankfort is governed through the commission-manager form of government. The members of the City Commission, headed by the mayor, are elected. The city manager is responsible for the day to day operation of the city while the mayor and commissioners make policy decisions and enact ordinances.
Franklin County operates under the magisterial form of government.
The County Judge Executive acts as the Chief Administrative Officer and governs along with six magistrates elected from geographic areas of Franklin County. Kentucky state government activities center around the State Capital, Capital Office Building and Capital Annex. State government has played a major role in Frankfort's economic stability for many years by providing jobs to Frankfort residents and those living in the surrounding areas. Although the City of Frankfort and Franklin County governments operate separately, they join together on many projects and programs in order to offer residents the best services available. An example of this shared service concept is the emergency dispatch service.