The Walsh Act was signed by New Jersey Governor Woodrow Wilson on April 25, 1911. The act permitted municipalities to adopt a non-partisan commission form of government. The commissions in Walsh Act municipalities are composed of either 3 or 5 members elected for 4 year concurrent terms. The commissioners also serve as department heads in addition to their legislative functions. The commissioners elect one commissioner as mayor, however the mayor is only responsible for his or her departments and serves as the chair of the commission.

Municipalities that have a five member commission

These communities have five commissioners: Commissioner of Public Affairs, Commissioner of Public Safety, Commissioner of Public Works, Commissioner of Parks and Public Property, and Commissioner of Revenue and Finance

Municipalities that have a three member commission

These communities have three commissioners: Commissioner of Public Affairs and Public Safety; Commissioner of Public Works, Parks and Public Property; and Commissioner of Revenue and Finance

See also

• 1923 Municipal Manager Law