While both city council and township boards are elected by the voters, the chief way the elected official, mayor or supervisor is chosen is different. In townships, in accordance with state law; the supervisor is elected by the voters. In cities, the charter determines whether the voters or the council elects the mayor.

The state constitution restricts the level of taxing power for general law townships. They are subject to a 15 mill limit. They may vote for extra millage only for specific purposes and periods of time. In contrast, cities may levy up to 20 mills for general purposes by state law.

While all units may transfer territory from one unit to another by mutual agreement, only annexation of land from the townships to cities can be done without township approval under the authority granted the State Boundary Commission. Very rarely, is a township granted annexation of land from a city.

Except for police service, there are no great differences in services provided. Cities maintain their streets, while in the township; the roads are maintained by the county road commission. Township residents do not pay taxes on roads.