Ohio Constitution Article X - County and Township Organizations
Ohio Constitution – Article X: County and Township Organizations – Summary
Article X of the Ohio Constitution provides the framework for the organization, powers, and self-governance of counties and townships in the state. It outlines how counties may adopt charters (home rule), restructure local governments, and the procedures for governance changes.
🔹 Section-by-Section Summary:
Section 1 – County Charter Government
Allows any county to frame and adopt a charter for self-government.
A county charter can restructure the form and powers of county government.
The charter must be approved by voters in a general or special election.
Can provide for elected or appointed officers, consolidation with municipalities, or new forms of administration.
Section 2 – Submission of Charter
Provides methods for submitting a proposed county charter to voters:
By a county board of commissioners (2/3 vote).
By initiative petition signed by at least 10% of electors.
The proposed charter must be submitted at the next general election at least 90 days after filing.
Section 3 – Amendment to County Charter
Allows amendments to an adopted county charter.
Amendments can be proposed by the legislative authority of the county or by petition of voters.
Requires approval by a majority vote in an election.
Section 4 – County Home Rule Powers
Grants home rule powers to charter counties to:
Exercise powers of local self-government.
Adopt and enforce local police, sanitary, and other regulations not in conflict with general laws.
Section 5 – Noncharter County Governments
Even noncharter counties may be given limited additional powers by state law.
These can include administrative functions and the authority to adopt rules or regulations with local effect.
Section 6 – Township Home Rule
Authorizes townships to adopt limited home rule governance by state law.
Permits creation of township regulations for local concerns like zoning, policing, and public services.
However, this does not equal full municipal home rule.
🔹 Key Themes:
Promotes local self-governance and flexibility in county government structure.
Provides a democratic process for adoption or amendment of county charters.
Recognizes townships as important local units, allowing them some home rule powers.
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