Palatine Township Republicans

Responsibilities of Elected Officials of Palatine Township

"Government closest to the people it serves is the government most accountable to them. For more than 150 years, Township Government in Illinois has served the local interests of its constituents and remains directly accountable to the voters who select their representatives in local government.

The people who serve in Township Government are men and women who embody the practice of citizen govennment. They work in local factories, offices, retail outlets, on farms and in the home. Because they govern at the most basic level of service, the make themselves available to the people they serve. More than any other government in North America, Township Government is operated by The People Next Door. "

... Township Officials of Illinois

Township Supervisor

Is the chief officer of the township and chairs the board of trustees. Also directs the activity related to General Assistance and acts as treasurer of all township funds.

Highway Commissioner

Is responsible for maintenance of all roads and bridges in the township that are publicly owned and not part of another governmental unit such as village, city, county or state.

Trustees

Are the legislative branch of the township. Establish policies and practices for activities and personnel not under the direct control of the assessor or highway commissioner.

Assessor

In many counties, establishes the values on all parcels of property for purpose of property taxes. In Cook County the county assessor fills this role and the Township Assessor assists township citizens in understanding their rights and responsibilities related to the assessed valuation of their property.

Clerk

Keeps the town records and those of the highway department. Provides local guidance in elections in addition to that provided by Cook County officials who are responsible for the actual operation of public elections.

Collector

Townships in Cook County elect a (tax) Collector which is a non-voting member of the Township Board. The Township Collector represents and promotes Township Government, proposes ideas and serves on committees in support of the Township mission statement.