Final answer:
Local governments, including county and city governments, have distinct primary functions. County governments administer state laws and maintain public works, while city governments focus on education, fire protection, and sanitation. Special districts provide specific services like education or utilities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary functions of different types of local governments vary based on their responsibilities and the services they provide to the community. County governments typically focus on administering state laws, maintaining public infrastructures such as roads and bridges, and overseeing public records. Within county government, elected officials known as Supervisors or Commissioners usually play a leading role.
City governments, on the other hand, may be led by elected mayors or appointed city managers. They prioritize services that have a strong and immediate effect on citizens, like education, fire protection, sewerage, and sanitation. Local news outlets often cover these governments' decisions on property tax rates or changes to school district policies.
Special districts have a narrower focus with their primary function being to provide specific services not covered by county or city governments. Examples include local school districts, which concentrate on elementary and secondary education, and utility districts, which may manage water, sewer, and electricity services.