Tampa had no mayor from 1862 until 1866, during which time the city government was temporarily suspended during and immediately after the American Civil War.

If no candidate wins a majority of the vote, a runoff election is held between the top two vote-getters to decide the outcome.

This resulted in several mayors serving multiple non-consecutive terms, especially in the late 1800s.

1 Following the lapse of the city charter in October 1869, Hillsborough County took over responsibility for providing principal services.

However, Tampa needed some form of municipal government to monitor the services being provided by the county and the state.