Community councils are independent, nonprofit, voluntary, self-governing associations composed of residents, property owners, business owners, nonprofits, and other entities located within geographical areas (districts) designated by the Assembly.

• The purpose of community councils is to provide a direct and continuing means of participating in the government process and local affairs.
• Community councils serve an advisory function to the Assembly, the Mayor and the Administration.
• Community councils are recognized in Anchorage’s Home Rule Charter, and the Assembly authorizes each council by ordinance.
• While community councils are not part of local government, they are an important part of the local government process.

Check out Community Council Roots – a snapshot of the early history of Community Councils from 1973 – 1978, written by Federation staff at the time. Read why Councils were added to the Home Rule Charter and how they grew within Anchorage.

Read Community Council 101 – a quick info sheet written by Municipal Ombudsman Darrel Hess.