Local Governments: Closest to the People (Part 2)

These flashcards cover key concepts of local government structures, specifically the Council-Manager and Commission forms, municipal expenditures, and school district dynamics.

Council-Manager Form

A system of local government where an elected city council appoints a city manager to implement policies and manage daily operations.

City Manager

A contracted professional responsible for the daily operations of a city, including hiring/firing staff and preparing the budget.

Single-Member District Seats

Legislative seats where residents of specific geographic areas elect one representative, promoting diversity.

At-Large Seats

Legislative seats elected by the entire city without regard to districts, potentially leading to less diverse representation.

Commission Form

A system of municipal government where legislative and executive powers are combined, with elected commissioners serving as department heads.

Galveston,(1900)

The city where the Commission form of government originated in response to the needs following a hurricane, created to return the city to its pre-storm condition.

Mayor-Council Form

A system of local government where a mayor is elected separately from the city council and has varying levels of power (strong or weak mayor).

Municipal Expenditures

Categories of city budget spending, with major areas including police, fire services, streets, and parks/recreation.

Median Family Income and City Taxes

The relationship between a city's median family income and the amount of taxes paid per capita, indicating predictability in tax amounts.

School District

An organization governing the public schools in a specified area, having both elected board members and appointed superintendents.