Local Government
Counties Largest unit of local government NC has 100 counties One town/city is chosen as the “county seat” and is the center of the county government
Counties (cont.) Legislature is called “Board of Commissioners” 3 to 11 people and 2 to 4 year term depending on county Control county budget, tax rate, and ordinances One commissioner is picked to be the “Chairperson” Counties hire a County Manager to be the executive.
Municipalities City, town, or village (same legal status) Over 540 in NC Each is “incorporated” and given a charter by NC Legislature called City Council, Town Council, Board of Alderman, etc. Local laws, budget, local tax
Municipalities (cont.) Mayors are usually one of the city council members. Only difference is that they preside over meetings and are a symbolic leader May be elected by citizens or other council members NC uses “council-manager” system which means cities hire a professional city manager to act as the executive. Miles Atkins, Mooresville Mayor