The City of Mountain Grove is a Fourth class city that operates under a Mayor/Council/Administrator form of government.  

The Board of Alderman is made up of eight Alderman and a Mayor.  The Mayor is elected to a four year term and is an at large position.  There are two alderman from four different wards and are elected to two year terms which alternates from one Alderman in the Ward on even years and the other Alderman in the odd years.

The City Administrator is the chief administrative officer of the city and oversees all day to day operations.  The City Clerk is the Chief Financial Officer of the City. This position oversees the finances along with the City Administrator.