- How are county governments structured?
- What are the functions of counties?
- Which aspects of county government need reform?
- How can we describe the governments of towns, townships, and special districts?
Counties
• A county is a major unit of local government in most States.
• The function of counties varies from State to State.
• They may share the functions of local government or be the major units of government for rural areas.
• Counties vary widely in area and population.
The most common functions of counties are:
• to keep the peace and maintain jails and other correctional facilities
• to asses property for taxes
• to collect taxes and spend county funds
• to build and repair roads, bridges, drains, and other such public works
• to maintain schools
Towns, Townships, and Special Districts
• In New England and elsewhere, the town or township is a major unit of local government and delivers most services.
• The main feature is the town or township meeting, which is open to all of the town’s eligible voters. It meets regularly to levy taxes, make spending and other policy decisions, and elect officers.
• Between town meetings, a small governing body manages the town’s business.
• Special Districts also exist across the country. Most of them are school districts.
• Special districts provide a service in a wider or smaller area than is covered by a county or city.