Which form of city government was created in Galveston after a natural disaster but is no longer used in Texas?

The commission form of city government was established in Galveston in response to the devastating hurricane of 1900. This innovative structure was designed to streamline administration and enhance governmental efficiency during the city's recovery and rebuilding efforts. Under the commission system, elected commissioners were responsible for different aspects of the city's functions, combining both legislative and executive powers in one body.

The need for rapid and coordinated action in the aftermath of a disaster made this model particularly appealing, as it allowed for decisive decision-making and implementation of policies necessary for recovery. Over time, as cities grew more complex and the demands on local government increased, Texas transitioned to more modern forms of governance, such as the council-manager system, which separates legislative and executive functions and typically involves professional management.

The commission form, while effective in some situations, eventually fell out of favor in Texas, as it lacked the checks and balances offered by other structures. Today, it is largely viewed as outdated and is not commonly used in Texas city governance, making it a significant historical example of government adaptation to crisis conditions.