The City of Sunbury is classified as a Third Class City and operates under Pennsylvania Third Class City Code. Sunbury was incorporated as a City December 29, 1921 and has a commission style of government consisting of a Mayor and four members of Council, all having equal power. The Mayor is a member and serves as president of the Council. Each Council member and the Mayor is in charge of one of the city’s major departments. These officials, the Controller, and the Treasurer are elected at-large for four-year terms. Appointments of all other city officers and employees are made by the City Council.