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The City of Ventura is located between Malibu and Santa Barbara on the Pacific coast, overlooking Anacapa and Santa Cruz islands. People have lived along this stretch of the California coast for at least ten thousand years. San Buenaventura was founded in 1782 by Father Junipero Serra, naming it after the Italian St. Bonaventure. The City of San Buenaventura was incorporated in 1866. Ventura became the County seat when Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties split in 1873. Ventura has matured into a seaside community known for its scenic coastline and hillsides, rich culture, revitalized historic Downtown and environmental stewardship. During the current economic crisis, the City Council has focused on delivering key services within available means and promoting sustainable prosperity. The City of Ventura provides a full range of services to 109,000 residents. It operates under the "Council/Manager" form of government under a charter adopted by voters in 1934, with an elected seven member City Council. The Mayor is chosen from among the City Council and serves a term of two years.