What is local government?

Local government is the lowest level of government in a country or state, responsible for managing the affairs and providing services to a specific geographic area, such as a city, town, village, or county. Local governments have more direct connections to the communities they serve, addressing issues specific to their localities and ensuring the provision of essential services such as public safety, sanitation, public infrastructure, land-use planning, and local education policy.

In the United States, local governments can include municipal governments (cities, towns, and villages), county governments, special districts, and school districts. The structure, organization, and responsibilities of local governments can vary significantly based on the size and needs of the community, as well as the state and local laws that govern their operations.

Local governments typically have their own governing bodies, such as city councils, town councils, or county boards of supervisors, which are responsible for making local laws, policies, and budgets. They also have executive branches, led by mayors, city managers, town administrators, or county executives, who are responsible for implementing and enforcing these laws and policies.

Local governments play a crucial role in addressing the needs of their communities by providing essential services, enacting and enforcing local laws, and fostering a sense of community identity. They are often more accessible and responsive to the concerns of citizens due to their close proximity and focus on local issues.