The Charter, which was approved by voters in 1965, allows Tooele City to operate under its own rules of administration. It looks to State law only to fill the gaps. Tooele City does not have a city manager or administrator like most cities of its size. The Tooele mayor functions as both the chief executive officer and the city manager, and serves a four-year term. The City Council consists of five, nonpartisan members elected at large.
Terms are for four years with no term limit.
The City Council meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month. Department heads are hired and dismissed by the mayor with consent of the city council. Under the Charter, the mayor may veto an ordinance or resolution. The mayor also breaks a tie city council vote. Another interesting characteristic of the Charter is the distinct separation of executive and legislative powers and duties.