City government can feel confusing — especially when it involves mayors, council districts, audits, ordinances, and something called a Home Rule Charter. Whether you’re new to Reading or just want to understand how local decisions get made, this guide offers a plain-language look at how Reading’s city government operates.
What Is a Home Rule Charter?
Unlike many Pennsylvania cities that follow the state’s “Third Class City Code,” Reading operates under what’s called a Home Rule Charter. This means the city has adopted its own local constitution — a legal document that outlines how Reading governs itself.
With home rule, the city has more control over its internal structure and decision-making, as long as it doesn’t violate state laws. It can:
- Set its own rules for how ordinances are passed
- Decide the structure and responsibilities of its elected offices
- Make certain decisions about local taxes and fees
- Establish oversight boards and procedures tailored to local needs
Reading adopted its Home Rule Charter in 1996 after a voter-approved referendum, giving residents more say in how local government is shaped.
Mayor: Executive Leader of the City
Reading has a strong mayor form of government. That means the mayor is not just ceremonial — they are the city’s chief executive. Responsibilities include:
- Overseeing city departments (police, fire, public works, etc.)
- Preparing and managing the city budget
- Proposing legislation to City Council
- Representing the city in official matters
The mayor is elected citywide and serves a four-year term.
City Council: The Legislative Branch
Reading’s City Council acts as the legislative branch of local government. There are seven members:
- Six represent geographic districts
- One is elected citywide (at-large)
Council’s job is to:
- Pass ordinances and resolutions
- Approve the city budget
- Hold public hearings and take resident input
- Provide checks and balances on mayoral authority
Council members are elected to four-year staggered terms, so not all seats are up for election at the same time.
City Auditor and Other Elected Officials
Reading also elects a City Auditor, who operates independently of both the mayor and council. The auditor is responsible for:
- Reviewing city spending and department finances
- Ensuring transparency and accountability
- Publishing annual audit reports
The city also has a City Clerk, appointed by council, who handles administrative duties like recording minutes, managing records, and facilitating the legislative process.
The Charter Board: Keeping Everyone in Check
Unique to home rule cities, Reading has a Charter Board, an independent body that:
- Interprets and enforces the Home Rule Charter
- Investigates potential charter violations
- Issues advisory opinions and rulings
This board exists to make sure the city follows its own rules and maintains ethical governance.
Why It Matters to You
Understanding how your city government works helps you:
- Know who to contact about local issues
- Vote more confidently in local elections
- Participate in public hearings or initiatives
- Hold elected officials accountable
Whether you’re attending a council meeting or just wondering who’s responsible for fixing a pothole, having a grasp of Reading’s government structure makes you a more informed and empowered resident.
How to Get Involved
Residents are always encouraged to participate in the civic process — whether that means attending public meetings, reviewing upcoming agendas, or offering public comment.
Attend City Council Meetings
Reading City Council meets in some form every Monday evening starting at 5:00 p.m., following a rotating schedule throughout the month:
- First Monday
Nominations & Appointments – 4:00 p.m.
Strategic Planning – 5:00 p.m. - Second Monday
Committee of the Whole – 5:00 p.m.
Regular Business Meeting – 7:00 p.m. - Third Monday
Nominations & Appointments – 4:00 p.m.
Committee of the Whole (Finance, Audit, Budget) – 5:00 p.m. - Fourth Monday
Committee of the Whole – 5:00 p.m.
Regular Business Meeting – 7:00 p.m.
Meetings take place in Council Chambers (Room 1-03) at City Hall, 815 Washington Street, and are open to the public. On months with five Mondays, Council may schedule additional work sessions — or occasionally take the extra Monday off.
Regular business meetings (held on the second and fourth Mondays) are also televised on BCTV MAC Channel 99 and live-streamed on the City’s Facebook page, with frequent replays throughout the month.
View Agendas, Minutes, and More
You can access:
- Council meeting schedules
- Agendas and past meeting minutes
- City Council District Map
- Public comment guidelines
- City Council Meeting Videos
All of this information is available on the official City of Reading website: readingpa.gov
Submit Public Comment
Residents may submit comments in writing or speak during designated public comment periods. Participation is open to all, and it’s one of the most direct ways to have your voice heard on city matters — from budget decisions to new ordinances.
Not sure what to say or how it works? Click here for our step-by-step guide to public comment at City Council meetings for everything you need to know.
