The incorporation of Washington, D.C., as a city marked a critical transformation in how the District was governed, moving from a Board of Commissioners to a structured mayor-council system. Prior to this change, the Board acted as the District's governing body, which was largely appointed and lacked local electoral representation. The decision to implement a more democratic form of governance stemmed from growing aspirations for local self-rule and efficiency in administration. The newly designated 'City of Washington' was aimed at creating a more responsive government that would better serve its residents' needs.

With the enactment of the law by Congress, the framework established a mayor who would be elected by the citizens of the city, alongside a city council tasked with legislative responsibilities. This newfound autonomy allowed for local citizens to have a direct say in their governance, addressing a key demand among the populace for greater control over their city. The mayor-council system was designed to streamline decision-making processes and enhance accountability.

In the backdrop of this transition, Washington, D.C., was in the midst of its development as the nation’s capital, and the establishment of a municipal government was key to managing its growth. As the city expanded, accommodating a moving population of officials, residents, and laborers, local governance would be paramount in meeting infrastructural demands and promoting civic engagement. This shift to a city government laid the groundwork for future governance models not only in D.C. but also influencing urban governance across the United States.