Government isn’t just in Washington, D.C.
Local government makes decisions that affect your daily life; from the potholes on your street to the schools in your neighborhood. Understanding how it works helps you get involved and make your voice heard.
👔 The Mayor
- The mayor is the top elected official in a city or town.
- Responsibilities vary by city, but often include:
- Proposing budgets.
- Overseeing city departments (police, fire, public works).
- Representing the city at events.
- Some cities have a “strong mayor” system (mayor has lots of power), while others have a “weak mayor” system (city council makes most decisions).
🏛️ The City Council
- The city council is the law-making body of a city.
- Usually made up of representatives from different districts/neighborhoods.
- Responsibilities include:
- Passing local laws (called “ordinances”).
- Approving budgets and spending.
- Setting policies for housing, zoning, and public safety.
- Council meetings are often open to the public — citizens can attend, speak, and influence decisions.
🎓 School Boards
- A school board oversees the public schools in a district.
- Members are usually elected.
- Responsibilities include:
- Hiring and evaluating the superintendent.
- Setting school policies (curriculum, safety, grading systems).
- Approving budgets for schools.
- School boards directly impact the quality of education in your community.
👉 Pro tip: School board elections often have low voter turnout, but their decisions affect thousands of students.
🗳️ Why Local Government Matters
- Determines property taxes, zoning, and housing rules.
- Runs local police, fire, and sanitation services.
- Controls public transportation, roads, and parks.
- Shapes education policies through school boards.
✅ Quick Checklist: Get Involved
🔑 Key Takeaway
Local government decisions affect your daily life more than you may realize.
Pay attention, get involved, and vote; your voice carries even more weight at the local level than in national elections.
