The City of Elizabeth City operates under the council-manager form of government. The Mayor and the City Council comprise the governing body of the City of Elizabeth City and adopt the ordinances and policies by which the city operates. The City Council is composed of eight members who serve terms of two years. For more information 252-338-3981.

Pasquotank County is ruled by a Board of Commissioners consisting of seven members who are elected to serve four year terms. Four of the Commissioners are elected from districts and three are elected at large. The county manager is appointed by the Board of County Commissioners and is responsible for day- to-day operations of Pasquotank County. For more information 252-335-0865.