How Mission Viejo's city government is set up: council, commissions and committees

The City of Mission Viejo was incorporated on March 31, 1988. It does not have a charter. It is a General Law city operating under the Council-Manager form of government, according to the city's FAQ.

The council. The City Council has five members, each listed with a district number, and a mayor and mayor pro tem. It meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. The city's council page lists the current members and a districting map.

Commissions. The council is assisted by three commissions: the Community Services Commission, the Investment Advisory Commission and the Planning and Transportation Commission. Commissioners advise the council and the City Manager on matters within their area of responsibility, recommend action and alternatives, and act as channels of communication among city government, the public and interest groups.

How commissioners are chosen. Members of each commission are appointed by the City Council from a pool of applicants. Each council member nominates one member for each commission, and each nomination must be ratified by a majority vote of the council. Commissioners serve at the pleasure of the council, and any commissioner can be removed at any time by a simple majority of the council, without cause.

Applying. The commissions page has a commission application and posts notices when a seat is vacant. The city also lists volunteer opportunities on its website.

Sources: Frequently asked questions, City of Mission Viejo; Commissions and committees, City of Mission Viejo; City Council, City of Mission Viejo. Facts last checked Oct 26, 2026.

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