Local Wiki · State overview
Local Government in Ohio
How local government works in Ohio, the kinds of local government it has, and where to look for more. For your own county or city, browse Ohio’s Local Wiki pages below.
Each county is run by a 3-member Board of County Commissioners, elected at-large, who combine legislative and executive power — budget, contracts, property-tax levies within state limits, and county infrastructure. Only two counties (Cuyahoga and Summit) have adopted a charter county-executive/council model; the rest use the standard commission form. For a public meeting, a resident would attend the commissioners' regular session; for records, requests typically go to the specific elected official who holds the record (auditor, clerk, recorder, etc.) or to the commissioners' office.
Local government in Ohio
- County governments88
The main local government across most of the state.
Browse county pages - Cities, towns & villages926
Incorporated municipalities with their own elected council or board.
Browse city & town pages - Townships1,308
Township governments beneath the county, often handling local roads and assistance.
- School districts665
Independent school districts with their own elected boards. Listed on county pages where known.
- Special districts951
Single-purpose governments — fire, water, library, parks, housing, transit, and more.
Counts: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 Census of Governments — Government Units listing. A consolidated city-county is counted once.
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