The Structure & Dynamics Of Local Governments In USA

USA have 2 levels of government above the local level - Government of 50 states - Federal National Government via Constitution of United States Typically each state has two separate tiers: - Counties - Municipalities Some states have further division of Counties into Townships This division is based on & reflects the population density

There are special purpose local governments as well 10 th amendment to the US Constitution makes local government under state rather than federal government

1)County Governments 2)Town or Township Governments 3)Municipal Governments 4)Special-Purpose Local Governments

 Backed by State Constitution & Statutes  All states are divided into counties for administrative purposes  Areas and cities without Counties operate under a Municipal Government

 Backed by constitution & statutes of 20 states  Generally based on geographical subdivision of a county  For a defined area  Also formed merely because of historical circumstances

Backed by states constitution & statutes Provides general government for a defined area Generally corresponding to a population center of a county May be very small or very large

SCHOOL DISTRICTS Provides public elementary, secondary, and/or higher education Have sufficient administrative & fiscal autonomy SPECIAL DISTRICTS Authorized by state to provide only one or a limited number of designated functions “Districts”, “Boards”, “Commissions”, etc. Maybe for an interstate compact also, serving areas of multiple states

Counties Cities Towns Villages Separate entities for Schools & Fire Districts Selected by the residents & approved by the state; not by the population or area.

Can make ordinances (local laws) 58 Counties Only ONE Municipal Entity called “City” Never had Villages & Townships Thousands of Special Districts local governments

REVENUE ℓTaxes ℓDirectly from federal government ℓInsurance Trust ℓLoans ℓCharges from higher education institutions & hospitals EXPENDITURE ℓEducation ℓUtility ℓPolice & Fire Department ℓInterest on debt