Wyoming Constitution article 12. County Organization.
Wyoming Constitution – Article 12: County Organization
Overview:
Article 12 of the Wyoming Constitution outlines the organization, governance, and powers of counties within the state. Counties are key administrative subdivisions of Wyoming’s government, and this article provides the constitutional basis for their formation and operation.
Key Provisions of Article 12 – County Organization:
Creation of Counties:
The legislature has authority to create new counties or modify existing county boundaries.
Typically, there are population and area requirements that must be met to form a new county.
County Officers:
The constitution provides for the election of key county officials, including:
County Commissioners
Sheriff
Clerk
Treasurer
Assessor
Attorney
Superintendent of Schools
Their terms of office and duties are to be defined by law.
County Government Powers:
Counties have limited self-governing powers subject to state law.
They can manage local affairs, collect taxes, and maintain infrastructure like roads and public buildings.
Debt and Taxation:
Counties must operate under strict financial rules.
They may incur debt only under certain legal conditions and often require voter approval.
Accountability and Transparency:
County governments are required to maintain public records and operate with financial accountability.
Purpose and Significance:
Provides the constitutional foundation for county-level governance in Wyoming.
Balances local autonomy with state oversight.
Ensures counties operate in a way that is democratic, transparent, and financially responsible.
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