Incorporated in April 1902, the Town of West Seattle established a five-member Town Council, with annual elections held on the first Tuesday in December. West Seattle's population grew rapidly, and in June 1904, the town advanced to city of the third class status. In 1904, 1905, and 1907, West Seattle annexed large portions of the surrounding territory, including the districts of Spring Hill, Riverside, Alki Point, and Youngstown.

West Seattle granted franchises to independent, private companies for the extension of vital services to the city including electric lights and power, street railways, telephone services, and water supply. The need for improved public services led to the movement for annexation to the City of Seattle. In June 1907, the voters of West Seattle voted 325 in favor and 8 opposed for annexation. West Seattle was physically the largest of the cities and towns to be annexed by the City of Seattle, encompassing an area of 16.24 square miles.