The administrative centre of West Lincoln is the community of Smithville, situated halfway between Hamilton and Pelham.

The township comprises the communities of Abingdon, Allens Corner, Attercliffe, Basingstoke, Bismark, Boyle, Caistor Centre, Caistorville, Elcho, Fulton, Grassie, Kimbo, Port Davidson, Rosedene, Silverdale, Smithville, St. Anns, Vaughan, Warner, Wellandport, Wilcox Corners and Winslow.

Retail establishments in Smithville are congregated amongst two major nodes: the downtown core, and the Village Square Mall.

The market features a carefully selected variety of vendors showcasing local produce, preserves, meat, honey, flowers and baking.

[3] The Council of West Lincoln is composed of a mayor and six councillors/aldermen who serve for a term of four years.