City of Irvine

About us

The City of Irvine was incorporated on December 28, 1971, under the general laws of the State of California. We operate under a charter law form of government which was adopted in 1975, meaning we have a City Council-City Manager form of government. The City Manager is appointed by the City Council to function as the chief administrator of the City. City Council sets the policy directions for the City, and the City Manager is charged with implementing those directions. Additionally, the City Manager keeps the Council informed of City operations, prepares the annual budget, oversees special programs, and coordinates the various department activities.

Irvine is one of the nation's largest planned urban communities and encompasses more than 55 square miles. We contract for fire and medical services with the County of Orange, and have three independent districts: library, educational and utility services. Other government services include: animal control; building and safety regulation and inspection; general administrative services; planning and zoning; police; public facility/capital improvement construction; recreation and cultural programs; refuse collection and recycling; street lighting; street maintenance; landscape maintenance and transportation management.

Mission

"Our goal is to create and maintain a community where people can live, work and play in an environment that is safe, vibrant and aesthetically pleasing. This community promotes the well-being of all people."

Goals

Maintain and enhance the physical environment by never letting any visible deterioration take hold in the community.

Maintain a safe and secure community by assuring the right balance between public safety services and prevention strategies.

Promote economic prosperity by attracting and retaining businesses and sales tax.

Promote effective government by assuring that the City organization is flexible, market-based and customer focused in its service delivery.

History

Archeological research establishes prehistoric man in the Irvine area at least 12,000 years ago, possibly even 18,000 years ago. Scattered evidence of early campsites and rock shelters can be seen in the undeveloped parts of the city.

Gabrielino Indians moved into the Irvine area 2,000 years ago, establishing dozens of villages. One village was located near the present San Joaquin marsh and another near the San Joaquin golf course.

The Gabrielinos were of the Shosonean language group. They enjoyed an abundant food supply of shellfish, waterfowl and land animals. They lived in round, woven huts and were excellent basket weavers and makers of seashell and stone jewelry.