As the most populous city in California, and the second most populous city in the United States, Los Angeles is home to nearly four million residents and 97,000 businesses across 469 square miles. The City of Los Angeles is a Mayor-Council-Commission form of government, with the Mayor, City Controller, and City Attorney elected by residents every four years. Fifteen City Council members representing fifteen districts are elected by the citizens for four-year terms, for a maximum of three terms. With members of Boards and Commissions typically appointed by the Mayor, and subject to the approval of the Los Angeles City Council. With approximately 44 departments and bureaus, the City of Los Angeles is your go-to source for all of your needs from local community events and programs to help starting your own business and everything in between.