Under its council-manager form of government, the citizens of Emerald Isle elect a six-member Board of Commissioners including the Mayor.
The Emerald Isle Board of Commissioners creates a vision for the Town of Emerald Isle by setting the policies, goals, and direction of the government including adopting necessary laws.
As the chief executive officer for the town government the Town Manager implements Board policies and oversees all government operations. The Town Manager advises the Board of Commissioners on all issues, recommends the annual budget, and oversees the work of all municipal staff.