Local Government Structures and Functions

The video explains the different levels of local government in the U.S., including counties, municipalities, townships, and special-purpose districts. It highlights the roles and responsibilities of each type, noting variations across states. Counties serve as the primary local government unit, while municipalities and townships focus on population centers and geographic areas, respectively. Special-purpose districts address specific needs like education and utilities. The video concludes with a review of these government forms.

How many local governmental units exist in the United States?

• Over 50,000

• Over 70,000

• Over 89,000

• Over 100,000

What is a unique feature of county governments in Alaska?

• They have no county-level government.

• They are called boroughs.

• They are called parishes.

• They are only used for census data.

Which states have eliminated their county governments in favor of the township model?

• Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois

• Connecticut, Rhode Island, and parts of Massachusetts

• California, Texas, and Florida

• New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania

What is the primary focus of municipal governments?

• Serving a geographic area

• Managing federal programs

• Serving a concentrated population area

• Providing state-level services

How do townships differ from municipalities?

• They are only found in Alaska.

• They have more powers than municipalities.

• They are larger than municipalities.

• They focus on a geographic area rather than a population center.

What is a special-purpose district?

• A district that serves multiple purposes

• A district focused on a single purpose

• A district that combines city and county governments

• A district that only exists in rural areas

Which of the following is an example of a special-purpose district?

• State legislature

• City council

• County jail

• Mosquito control district

How many special-purpose districts exist in the United States?

• Over 50,000

• Over 39,000

• Over 30,000

• Over 20,000

What is the primary funding source for municipalities and townships?

• Federal grants

• Income taxes

• Property taxes

• Sales taxes

What are the four forms of local government mentioned in the video?

• Cities, towns, villages, and boroughs

• Municipalities, townships, counties, and special-purpose districts

• Federal, state, county, and city

• Counties, municipalities, states, and federal