LOCAL GOVERNMENT IN GEORGIA

STANDARD FOCUS STANDARD FOCUS SS8CG5: The student will analyze the role of local governments in the state of Georgia.

a.Explain the origins, functions, purposes, and differences of county and city governments in Georgia.

b.Compare and contrast the weak mayor-council, the strong mayor-council, and the council-manager forms of city government.

c.Describe the functions of special-purpose governments.

d.Evaluate the role of local government working with state agencies to administer state programs.

Types of Local Types of Local Government 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 Examples of Special DistrictsDistricts

Basic Forms of Municipal Basic Forms of Municipal GovernmentGovernment

Strong MayorStrong MayorA. mayor is the ceremonial head of

government B. city council has no administrative

power; C. mayor has complete veto power; D. mayor is the main executive of the city

– budget/runs the city (however, has assistants who help)

Basic Forms of Municipal Basic Forms of Municipal GovernmentGovernment

Weak MayorA.mayor is the ceremonial head of government;B.mayor appoints top officials and recommends legislation; C.presides over council meetings; D.city council creates the policies & laws (ordinances).

Basic Forms of Municipal Basic Forms of Municipal GovernmentGovernment

Council Manager System A.mayor – ceremonial head of government; B.mayor has no executive power;C.city council makes & enforces ordinances; D.city manager – hired to carry out laws and policies

Local Government Local Government ServicesServices

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 Local Government ServicesServices

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

A. The income that local governments receive to pay for services is called Revenue Taxes

B. Property Taxes – land/buildings (real) & cars, boats, planes (personal)

C. Ad valorem tax – tax based on the value of the property.

D. millage rate - $1.00 on each $1,000.00 of assessed value of property; based on 40% of the assessed value

Paying Local ExpensesPaying Local Expenses

Other Sources of Incomeone percent local option sales tax alcoholic beverage taxTobacco surcharge taxoccupation taxes taxes on lodging bills user fees, business licenses, fines, grants