2.6 Understanding Local Government

Now, what do local governments do?

Cities, townships, and villages are responsible for providing services directly to Ohio residents, such as police and fire protection, building inspection, sanitation, and road maintenance. They can pass ordinances (i.e. local laws) related to zoning (e.g., determining what can be built and where), public safety, noise control, property maintenance, and other matters. These regulations are designed to maintain order, protect public health and safety, and ensure the general welfare of the community. Ordinances are enforced by local authorities and can result in fines or other penalties if violated.

Counties in Ohio manage broader services that span multiple municipalities, such as countywide transportation systems, public health services, and libraries. They are often called the “branch offices” of state government because they carry out state-mandated functions at the local level. For example, counties oversee election administration and play a crucial role in court administration, supporting the operation of common pleas courts, probate courts, and other judicial functions within the county.

Did you know school districts are a type of local government?

School districts are responsible for the administration and operation of public schools within a specific geographic area. Each school district is governed by an elected board of education, which sets policies, approves budgets, and oversees the district’s superintendent. School districts are tasked with ensuring educational standards, managing school facilities, hiring teachers and staff, and providing transportation for students. They are funded through a combination of local property taxes, state funding, and federal grants.

This semester you will also learn about other types of special districts.

In Ohio, special districts are a type of local government created to provide specific services or programs within an area defined by the state legislature. Unlike general-purpose governments, special districts focus on a single function or a set of related functions. Examples of special districts include library districts, regional water and sewer authorities, and transit and port authorities. Each special district has its own governing body, which is established by state law and varies based on the type of district. These districts can span multiple municipalities or be part of a single local government, allowing them to address specialized needs efficiently.

Reference

Bethel, Alyssa. 2015. Overview of Ohio Local Government. Ohio Legislative Service Commission. Columbus, OH.