About the City of Shelby
Shelby is a city of 9,821 residents. It is governed by a mayor, four council members representing the four wards of the city, and a council representative-at-large. Each candidate runs for election on a non-partisan basis. The mayor's term is four years. The council's term is three years. City council meets on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 7:00 pm. Meetings are open to the public and held at the city courthouse, 18 West Main Street.

Independent Utilities
Shelby is one of the few remaining communities that owns its electric, water, and sewage services; a situation that allows the city to provide its residents, businesses, and industries with low cost yet efficient service. In 2000, Shelby provided the lowest rates of any utility system in Richland County for its consumer owners. Since these utilities are locally owned, customer owners can attend council meetings and voice their opinions and concerns about their utilities.