What Does the County Commission Do?
County commissioners are responsible for the legislative and financial decisions that shape how county government operates. While commissioners do not manage day‑to‑day departments, they set the framework that determines how public money is spent, how policies are adopted, and how accountable county government is to the people it serves.
Budget and Taxpayer Responsibility
One of the most important duties of the county commission is adopting the annual county budget. This includes approving spending for the county’s general fund, highway fund, school fund, and any other funds such as debt service.
Commissioners also set the county property tax rate, within limits set by state law. Every budget vote and tax decision carries a responsibility to balance essential services with the financial burden placed on working families, landowners, and retirees.
Oversight and Accountability
County commissioners serve as a check on county government by asking questions, reviewing financial records, and ensuring public funds are used lawfully and transparently. This includes understanding reserves, off‑budget accounts, and long‑term financial obligations before approving new spending or tax increases.
Good oversight means decisions are made in the open, records are accessible, and citizens can understand how and why their money is being spent.
Schools and Other Public Boards
The county commission works with the county school board on education funding. While commissioners typically vote yes or no on the school budget as a whole, that vote still carries significant responsibility because it affects taxes and long‑term financial planning.
Commissioners may also appoint or confirm members to various boards and committees. These appointments matter because they influence utilities, planning, and other public services.
Local Laws and Policy Decisions
County commissions adopt resolutions and ordinances that affect local policy, land use, and county operations. These decisions should respect property rights, follow state law, and reflect the will of the community.
A commissioner’s role is not to expand government power, but to ensure policies are necessary, lawful, and applied fairly.
Representing Your District
County commissioners are elected to represent their specific districts. That means listening to constituents, responding to concerns, and making decisions with local impacts in mind. Effective representation requires availability, preparation, and a willingness to speak up on behalf of residents.