While the powers of cities and villages are similar, the main difference is in the way they are organized. In a typical city government, the mayor acts as the executive officer alongside a supporting common council. This council acts as a legislative body and members are elected from from defined districts, while the mayor is elected at large. A village board, in contrast, consists of a chairperson and a group of trustees. Together this board serves as both the executive officer and legislative body, with the president and trustees being elected at large.