Chapter 16 Local Government – County/City E. Q Chapter 16 Local Government – County/City E.Q.: Why does local government have more impact on our lives than other levels of government?

History of County Governments In 1777, Georgia adopted its first state constitution and the first 8 counties were formed (formerly parishes) State constitution requires county commission form of government. Created to serve as districts for carrying out state laws and programs. 1983 state constitution set the limit of 159 counties.

County Functions Provide courts of law (juvenile, probate, magistrate) Hold county elections Building and repairing county roads Administering welfare programs Provide services such as police and fire protection, libraries, and public transportation.

Write specific examples in your notes

County’s Governmental Organization Board of Commissioners – power to adopt ordinances (local laws) and oversee daily operation of government. Some other county officials: sheriff, tax commissioner Tim Lee Commission Chairman

Where are we? Write a statement describing the approximate geographical location of Cobb County.

Which counties around metro Atlanta have the highest population: Census Bureau Discussion: 1.Which geographic region is the most densely populated? 2. Locate the Fall Line 3. What city is located in Chatham County?

What is a County Seat? A city or town where the county government is located. The county seat for Cobb County is Marietta.

SPLOST Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax Voters approved in 2011 – 4 years tax to improve parks, transportation, infrastructure, etc. Both Palmer and Kell High School were built with SLOST funds.

City Government There are over 500 cities and towns in Georgia. A city or town (municipality) is established by a Charter (Where else have we heard this term? Approved and incorporated by the General Assembly

Forms of City Government 3 Types: Weak-mayor council Mayor may share duties with city council; often “figure head” role. Strong-mayor council Mayor is the CEO of the city, runs day-to-day operations, manages budget, hires and fires, can veto legislation passed by city council Typical of large cities such as ATL. Council Manager (Kennesaw) City Council sets city’s policy and hires City Manager City Manager conducts day-to-day operations.

Typical City Services fire and police water and sewer streets parks and recreation planning and zoning code enforcements public transportation services schools

Special Purpose Districts Government entities created to serve a specific function for the state or community. generally self-governing Examples: school districts MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) Public Housing Authority Georgia Ports Authority Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport

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