The council was established as part of the consolidation of city and county governments, enacted by Unigov on January 1, 1970.

[1] The council is composed of 25 members elected to four-year renewable terms, each representing an electoral district.

It can also enact, repeal, or amend ordinances, and make appointments to certain boards and commissions, among other duties.

[7] Ali Brown became the first openly queer-identifying woman to serve on the council, representing District 5.

[5] Leading up to the 2023 municipal primary the Marion County Democratic Party announced the end of slating, a political process in which precinct committee persons endorsed candidates during a pre-primary convention.

[10] Jesse Brown, an endorsed member of the Democratic Socialists of America was elected to council for District 13.

[12][13] The Indianapolis City-County Council consists of 25 seats corresponding to 25 electoral districts apportioned by population throughout Marion County.

Because the council is the legislative body for both the city and the county, residents of Marion County's four "excluded cities" (Beech Grove, Lawrence, Southport, and Speedway) are eligible to vote in council elections and are equally represented alongside Indianapolis residents.