Madawaska follows the Town Manager form of government. Madawaska was originally incorporated on March 15, 1831. It was re-incorporated on February 24, 1869. The Town Manager is appointed by the Board of Selectpeople and is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the town. The Town Manager is responsible for town wide operations of each department (except the municipal schools), all financial transactions, and the supervision of all town employees. The Town Manager implements the policies adopted by the Board of Selectpeople, develops the annual budget, provides assistance and support to various Boards & Committees in addition to numerous other functions.

 Gary M. Picard is the new Town Manager, effective June 19, 2017.