Our nation has always rested in the thousands of local governments that serve our communities every day. Nearly two centuries ago, French political philosopher Alexis de Tocqueville observed that "Local institutions are to liberty what primary schools are to science; they bring it within the people's reach." His insight remains as relevant today as when he wrote Democracy in America—our democracy is strongest when decisions are made close to the people they affect.

In fact, did you know in 1736, Benjamin Franklin helped organize Philadelphia's Union Fire Company — one of America's earliest community-based public service organizations. It was established decades before nearly every municipal government in colonial America, reflecting a long tradition of neighbors coming together to serve their communities. 

Although little is recorded on the earliest special districts, the history of these local government entities date back to the 18th century with the establishment of park districts and expanded to toll roads and irrigation districts in the 19th century. Special districts originated with the common purpose to provide a service that other government entities, such as cities and counties, are not providing.

Communities across the land turned to forming special districts to address a variety of urgent needs. As the country’s population boomed in the post-World War II era, it became obvious that growing communities needed more hospitals and health care, water and wastewater, and other community enrichment services. Communities formed special districts to meet these needs.

One example of the transformative power of special districts can be found in California’s Central Valley. By passing the Wright Act in 1887, the California State Legislature empowered local leaders to source and deliver water for agriculture in the historically arid region. Local farmers formed the Turlock Irrigation District that same year and others soon followed suit. Formation of irrigation districts would contribute to the growth of the nation’s single-largest source of food products.

Governed by locally elected or appointed officials, these independent units of local government provide essential intergovernmental public services ranging from fire protection, water, ports, airports, parks, libraries, healthcare, conservation, transit, and more. While these services are delivered locally, many of the policies that shape their future are developed in Washington, D.C.

According to U.S. Census figures, we believe to be an undercount,  today more than 39,555 special districts provide a wide array of specialized services to millions of Americans.