News
September 1, 2007
The Role of County Government
Each one of California's 36 million residents lives within the boundaries of one of the state's 58 counties. Counties serve as agents of the state and federal government, and as a local government entity responsive to the needs and preferences of the community.
The County acts as an agent of the State in administration and delivery of certain health, welfare, and criminal justice programs that are of statewide concern. The County is also mandated to provide General Assistance and health care for the indigent in our community. Since State funding is insufficient to cover the costs of performing these required functions, Santa Clara County uses a major part of its tax base to fund them; leaving control of a small margin of funds for programmatic or operational services. Due to constitutional and statutory restrictions, the County has limited ability to raise new revenues and must, therefore, constantly balance the service needs and preferences of residents as it administers both state-required and local need-based programs.
What does this mean to you from a service perspective? It means an A-Z list of service is provided to the community; birth, marriage and death certificates, life saving medical care, meals for seniors, foster care, prosecution of crime, open space for parks and trails, emergency response, law enforcement, jails, road construction and maintenance, airports, land use and building permits, and libraries.
Without many of these services, the fabric of our community would begin to unravel.
During my nearly 7 years on the Board of Supervisors I have committed to meeting the public’s need for service while taking into account our fiscal responsibility for a balanced budget. I have committed to crafting responsible policy, to provide a framework of actions and principals from which the needs of the community can best be met.
With its breadth of service and functions, local government is a wonderful place to serve the public and provide leadership. I serve with appreciation for the complexity of issues we face, and with a variety of skills to bring to the table in solving those issues.
What Others Say
“Liz gets results. Her persistence has led to the new First Five preschool location in Mountain View, continuing school-linked services, and support for our Community Health Awareness Council. We're grateful.”
“I've been working with Liz on Cupertino issues for years; she brings committment and integrity to her discussions about our community.”
“Partnering with our city is a high priority for Liz as we work together on environmental issues, and bus and rail services.”
“Liz has shown the leadership it takes to protect and provide vital safety services. Liz has a proven track record.”
“Liz is one of the most responsive elected officials I've worked with, government needs more like her.”
“Liz Kniss is among the most qualified of elected officials it has been our pleasure to know...She is a dedicated and tireless worker for the citizens of North Santa Clara County. She listens. She has our total confidence and support.”
“Liz has consistently represented our District with the highest level of integrity and effectiveness; she deserves to be re-elected”
“Liz is doing a first rate job - the kind of good work that merits re-election as Fifth District Supervisor.”
“Liz's role as a regional leader is pivitol. She works to bring together multiple viewpoints and voices. I believe we need her kind of skilled leadership in our Valley.”