Understanding Federalism and Counties in the US

What distinguishes St. Louis City from other cities in the United States?

What is one of the primary roles of municipalities like St. Louis City?

Why were many municipalities created in St. Louis County?

Which of the following is a key aspect of the governance structure in the City of St. Louis?

What is the primary content of local ordinances enforced by county governments?

What role does the Supremacy Clause play in the relationship between state and federal governments?

Which entity has broad authority over areas such as safety and education within a state?

What is the primary reason counties create special districts and boards?

In the context of Missouri, what unique characteristic does St. Louis City have?

How does federalism affect the governance structure in the United States?

What can state and local governments not do in relation to federal authority?

Which level of government is responsible for creating and enforcing local ordinances?

What typically exists within counties in relation to cities and towns?

Federalism

The US government is made up of a Federal, State and Local government all of which are co-equal
The Supremacy Clause states the federal government is Supreme and state and local governments cannot contradict Federal law
States reserve police power, which gives them authority over safety, education, health, community standards and welfare
Each state has multiple counties.
The City of St. Louis is an independent city and county
The Federal, State, and Local Governments work together in a hierarchy

Counties

Counties are a specific region of a state or country.
There are 3,144 counties in the United States.
Counties are responsible for:
- Passing and enforcing ordinances
- Enforcing state laws at the local level
- Taxation and funding services (like pools, libraries, and parks)
- Issuing licenses (marriage, business, building)
- Operating a health department
- Surveying and keeping property records
- Maintaining county roads
- The County Sheriff enforces court orders
St. Louis County is the most populous county in Missouri with over 1 million residents.

Municipalities (Cities)

Municipalities operate with the authority of the state.
They can issue ordinances, raise taxes, build/maintain infrastructure, and operate other programs.
St. Louis County has over 89 municipalities.
The creation of many municipalities was to preserve racial and economic homogeneity.

City of St. Louis

The City of St. Louis is also a county.
The City of St. Louis has a Mayor-City Council system
Each ward elects a single Alderman, who represents that ward.
The Mayor and President of the Board of Alderman are elected city-wide.

Special Districts

School districts and fire districts fall under special districts.

This quiz explores the structure of federalism in the United States, focusing on the roles of federal, state, and local governments. It also provides insights into the function and responsibilities of counties within the state system, including law enforcement, taxation, and public services.