When people think about the County Executive, they often imagine the role being more powerful—or more hands-on—than it really is. Here’s a straightforward breakdown of what the office is responsible for, and what falls outside its authority.

✅ What the County Executive Does

1. Serves as the county’s chief administrator.

They oversee day-to-day county operations and keep government running smoothly.

2. Handles the county’s finances.

They act as the county’s financial officer—reviewing spending, auditing claims, and ensuring county money is used properly.

3. Presents and manages the county budget.

They help build the annual budget and submit it to the County Commission for approval.

4. Manages county property.

They are responsible for the care, custody, and tracking of county-owned property unless another law assigns it elsewhere.

5. Appoints certain boards, committees, and department heads.
Some appointments require confirmation by the County Commission.

6. Works closely with the County Commission.

They attend meetings, answer questions, provide information, and may have limited veto power—though the Commission can override it.

7. Provides leadership and direction.

The County Executive sets priorities, works toward community goals, and coordinates big-picture efforts across county departments.

❌ What the County Executive Does Not Do

1. Does NOT run the school system.

They do not set curriculum, hire teachers, or manage school operations.
That is the role of the School Board and Director of Schools.

2. Does NOT control the Sheriff’s Office.

They cannot direct law enforcement, investigations, patrol routes, jail operations, or deputy personnel matters.
Those decisions belong to the elected Sheriff.

3. Does NOT set the tax rate alone.

Only the County Commission can set property tax rates.
The Executive can recommend—but cannot impose—a tax.

4. Does NOT oversee other elected officials.

The Executive cannot direct or micromanage:

• Trustee
• Clerk
• Circuit Court Clerk
• Register of Deeds
• Property Assessor
  Each of these offices is independently elected.

5. Does NOT control the Road Department.

They do not choose which roads are paved or repaired.
The Road Superintendent—also elected—makes those decisions.

6. Does NOT run elections.

They have zero authority over voter registration, precincts, early voting, or ballots.
That’s the Election Commission.

7. Does NOT approve or deny building permits.

Zoning decisions, variances, and development approvals come from:

• Planning Commission
• Building/Codes Department
• Board of Zoning Appeals

8. Does NOT control court operations.

They have no authority over judges, court schedules, or legal decisions.

Bottom Line:

The County Executive is the administrative and financial manager of county government—not the director of every office or department. They handle budgets, county property, and broad leadership, while many other major functions (schools, policing, roads, elections) are run by other elected officials or independent boards.