Local Government
“The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.”
LWVNOW is committed to enhancing our members’ and fellow citizens’ understanding of and participation in local government.
The average citizen’s knowledge often falls short of what it takes to ensure good government and wise allocation of tax dollars. Think about it — many things that determine the quality of our daily lives are controlled at the local level: zoning, public schools, public health and safety, roads, water supply, etc.
LWVNOW’s strategies to encourage informed participation include:
Co-sponsoring events and forums devoted to local issues and elections.
Encouraging citizens to consider running for local offices.
The LWVNOW Observer Corps: League members attend government meetings on a regular basis.
Resources for observing local government: League of Women Voter’s Observing Your Government in Action: A Resource Guide; League of Women Voters of the Northwoods Tips for Agency Observers and Observer’s Meeting Report Form
Good to Know:
Wisconsin’s state constitution specifies that county government’s responsibilities are limited by statute to carrying out state laws, while municipalities have been granted “home rule”.
Suggested reading: UW-Extension's Local Government Center and UW-Extension's Resources for Local Officials.
For information about Public Records and Open Meetings law and public participation in government meetings: Citizens for Education in Town Governance website page Open Government
