Form of Government

Under the California State Constitution, there is a difference in powers granted to cities. A "General Law City" is one, which operates exclusively under State law. The City Charter, in accordance with the State Constitution, provides the City with authority for "Home Rule" whereby the City is given the power to make and enforce within its own boundaries any law, which does not conflict with the State or Federal Government. The State Constitution gives this right of "Home Rule" to any city.

Porterville has operated as a Charter City since 1926, but the Charter has been changed by the voters several times since then.

Operating with an annual budget of 25.5 million dollars, employing over 288 people, and serving approximately 51,467 citizens, the City of Porterville is a major business. The stockholders in this business are the citizens of Porterville, who in return for their tax investment, receive dividends in the form of municipal services.