Final answer:
The largest portion of county taxes often goes towards funding education, particularly public elementary and secondary schools, with property taxes being a key source of local government revenue.
Step-by-step explanation:
The largest amount of taxes paid by a citizen in a county typically pays for education. At the local level, the primary expenditure is on public education, specifically at the elementary and secondary levels, which accounts for approximately 35% of local spending.
Other significant expenses include healthcare, utilities, roads, public welfare, as well as police and fire protection services. Property taxes are the main source of revenue for local governments, largely funding these aforementioned services.
These taxes are assessed based on the value of real estate and other assets owned by individuals and corporations.