Townships are a vital, yet often overlooked, form of local government in the United States. This article explores the definition of a township, its historical roots, its functions, and its place within the broader governmental landscape. Whether you’re a student, a researcher, or simply a curious citizen, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of what a township is and what it does.
Townships, also known as “towns” in some states, represent a grassroots level of governance. They directly impact the lives of residents by providing essential services and addressing local needs. Understanding their role is crucial for informed civic engagement.
The Origins and Evolution of Townships
The township form of government has deep historical roots in America.
The Pilgrim fathers brought the township form of government to America in 1620. This unit of local government eventually spread as far west as the Rocky Mountains. Today, it is found in 20 states, known as the town or township.
In Ohio, townships predate the state government itself. Established by Congressional Acts that determined their size and shape, townships became the natural choice as the basic unit of local governance as the territory became populated. Originally, elected officials included trustees, a clerk, overseers of the poor, highway supervisors, justices of the peace, and constables. Their primary responsibilities were caring for the poor, maintaining roads, and preserving peace.
Today, townships remain political subdivisions of the state. However, their functions and duties have evolved to meet the changing needs of their communities. Ohio’s 1,308 townships are now administered by three trustees and a fiscal officer, each elected to a four-year term. Some townships also employ a township administrator to assist with planning, coordination, and implementation of township goals. The intimate knowledge of elected officials regarding their communities enables them to offer services that are more personalized.
Key Functions and Responsibilities of a Township
Townships are authorized by state law to operate under a basic form of government and perform a wide range of functions. These functions vary depending on the township’s population size, annual operating budget, and the specific needs of its residents.
Common services provided by Ohio townships include:
- Road Maintenance: Maintaining and repairing township roads, including snow removal and weed control, remains a crucial function.
- Cemetery Management: Many townships manage local cemeteries, overseeing plot sales, maintenance, and expansion.
- Police and Fire Protection: Townships can employ local police officers, create police districts, or contract with neighboring jurisdictions for police protection. They also provide fire protection directly or through contracts with other entities.
- Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Providing or contracting for emergency medical services to ensure prompt response to medical emergencies.
- Solid Waste Disposal: Townships are authorized to provide waste disposal services, either directly or through contracts with other entities.
- Zoning: Regulating land use and development through zoning plans to ensure orderly growth and protect property values.
Other functions may include economic development, accounting and finances, public records management, land use planning, blight elimination, cable franchise management, community centers, building code enforcement, off-road vehicle regulation, street lighting, public information, and youth programs.
Revenue and Funding Sources for Townships
Townships receive revenue from various sources, including local property taxes, gasoline and motor vehicle license taxes, and state government funds. Property tax increases require voter approval. Ohio townships collect a relatively small percentage of local property taxes, highlighting their efficiency in managing resources.
Townships may also establish and operate parks and recreation facilities, either independently or in collaboration with other political subdivisions. They can purchase land and materials and use township funds to acquire or improve parks. Township park districts, with their own boards and taxing authority, can also be established.
Home Rule and Expanded Powers
Generally, townships possess only the powers expressly delegated to them by statute or those reasonably implied from those delegated. However, certain townships in Ohio with at least 2,500 residents in an unincorporated area can adopt a limited home-rule government. This allows them to exercise “all powers of self-government,” subject to certain exceptions.
The Legal Framework Governing Townships
Townships operate within a specific legal framework, primarily governed by state laws and regulations.
- Ohio Constitution: The Ohio Constitution provides for the election of township officials, grants them the power of local taxation, and addresses their term of office.
- Ohio Revised Code: The Ohio Revised Code contains numerous provisions concerning townships and township officials, including those related to their authority and restrictions. Title V of the Revised Code is specifically dedicated to townships.
- Federal Law: Federal laws, such as anti-discrimination provisions and the Americans with Disabilities Act, also apply to townships.
Understanding this legal framework is crucial for township officials and residents alike to ensure compliance and effective governance.
Township Elections and Governance
Candidates for township office must be residents of the township in which they are running. Nominations are typically made by nominating petitions signed by township residents and filed with the county board of elections.
Township officials are elected on a nonpartisan ballot in the November general election in odd-numbered years. Township trustees and fiscal officers serve four-year terms and must take an oath of office.
Conclusion: The Enduring Importance of Townships
Townships are a fundamental part of the American system of local government. They provide essential services, address local needs, and empower residents to participate in their governance. Understanding what a township is and what it does is crucial for informed civic engagement and a stronger, more vibrant community.
