State and Local Government
Session 17: Overview of the Power of Local Government

Materials

• Textbook

Instructional Activities

1. Explain that all powers of local government in Virginia are created and controlled by the state. Virginia delegates to localities the powers that they feel are best conducted at a local level. Schools are a good example. Ask students to explain advantages to having schools operated at a local level. (Communities are different; for example, city schools may not offer an agriculture program.) 

2. Explain that local governments are organized in the same three branches as the state and national governments.
   
   
3. List and describe the powers of the three branches of local government. Ask students to take notes in their notebooks.
   •    Legislative Branch: Makes ordinances for community; approves annual budget; limits power to that delegated by the state
   •    Executive Branch: Carries out local ordinances, often by means of city or county managers hired by local legislatures such as a board of supervisors or city council
   •    Judicial Branch (Local Courts): Hear cases under the authority provided by state legislation.
   
   
4. Identify two or three important topics of local concern. Discuss possible actions of local government.