Local Government In Georgia

Standard Focus SS8CG5: The student will analyze the role of local governments in the state of Georgia. Explain the origins, functions, purposes, and differences of county and city governments in Georgia. Compare and contrast the weak mayor-council, the strong mayor-council, and the council-manager forms of city government. Describe the functions of special-purpose governments. Evaluate the role of local government working with state agencies to administer state programs.

Types of Local Government Counties – created by the General Assembly to carry out state laws and programs. Georgia has 159 counties. Cities - A community inside of a county that has been incorporated (officially created) by the state legislature. AKA – Municipality Special Districts – Small government units set up by the cities or counties to provide services to the public. Some examples are: water plant/sewer system, transportation (MARTA), & Parks and Recreation

Examples of Special Districts

Basic Forms of Municipal Government Strong Mayor mayor is the ceremonial head of government city council has no administrative power; mayor has complete veto power; mayor is the main executive of the city – budget/runs the city (however, has assistants who help)

Basic Forms of Municipal Government Weak Mayor mayor is the ceremonial head of government; mayor appoints top officials and recommends legislation; presides over council meetings; city council creates the policies & laws (ordinances).

Basic Forms of Municipal Government Council Manager System mayor – ceremonial head of government; mayor has no executive power; city council makes & enforces ordinances; city manager – hired to carry out laws and policies

Local Government Services Public Safety – provides for : police protection, fire protection, animal control, traffic regulation, & building codes Public Works – taking care of the physical aspects of a city/county: roads & streets, garbage disposal, water/sewer lines, public buildings Public Utilities – provide services to the community: water, electricity, sewage treatment plants, natural gas. Planning/Development – making sure the city grows and develops in a safe way – zoning laws. (SIM CITY)

Local Government Services Human Services – health & public assistance programs: vaccinations, hearing & eye tests for children, spraying for dangerous insects. Judicial Services – city & county courts/county jail Record Keeping – important government information has to be kept in order: court & police records, election results, property ownership, & motor vehicle registration

Paying Local Expenses The income that local governments receive to pay for services is called Revenue Taxes Property Taxes – land/buildings (real) & cars, boats, planes (personal) Ad valorem tax – tax based on the value of the property. millage rate - $1.00 on each $1,000.00 of assessed value of property; based on 40% of the assessed value

Other Sources of Income Paying Local Expenses Other Sources of Income one percent local option sales tax alcoholic beverage tax Tobacco surcharge tax occupation taxes taxes on lodging bills user fees, business licenses, fines, grants