The City of Calistoga is located at the northern end of the Napa Valley. It was established in 1859 and has a current population of approximately 4700 permanent residents. Tourism provides the economic base for the community, due to the presence of a number of hot springs resorts and restaurants in the City itself and the proximity of the surrounding Napa Valley wine industry.
Most employment therefore is in the service and retail fields.
Mineral water companies and agricultural businesses are also significant to the City s economy. The City of Calistoga is governed by its City Council, composed of five elected members, including the Mayor. The City employs approximately 55 people. In 1995 the City of Calistoga altered its Municipal Code by placing executive authority with a city manager, rather than a city administrator. The City Manager became responsible for the hiring, firing, and supervisor of City department heads.