Local Government

Bristol is a unique bi-state community made up of two cities: Bristol, Tennessee and Bristol, Virginia. While they share a name, history, and economy, each city operates under its own local government and state laws.

Both cities use a City Council–City Manager form of government, with elected councils setting policy and professional city managers overseeing daily operations and services.

Despite being governed separately, Bristol, TN and Bristol, VA work closely together on economic development, tourism, infrastructure, and community initiatives, allowing the region to function as a unified business and cultural hub.

In addition to this cross-border collaboration, the broader region also works in partnership with Sullivan County and Washington County. These county governments play an important role in regional planning, education, public safety, and economic growth, further strengthening cooperation across Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.