09/26/2026
🏛️ WHO MAKES DECISIONS IN YOUR COMMUNITY?
When you think about elections, you might think about the president, governors, or members of Congress. But some of the decisions that affect your everyday life are made much closer to home.
In the Quad Cities, local government can look a little different depending on which side of the Mississippi you live on. So, what do all those local offices actually do?
➡️ MAYOR
The mayor is the city's chief elected leader and helps set the direction and priorities of city government. Depending on the city, the mayor may also have specific administrative or legislative responsibilities.
➡️ CITY COUNCIL / ALDERPERSONS
City councils make local laws and policies, approve city budgets, and make decisions about things like development, public services, infrastructure, and community priorities.
➡️ COUNTY BOARD
County boards help oversee county government, including budgets, public services, infrastructure, and other responsibilities that extend beyond individual cities.
➡️ SCHOOL BOARD
School board members govern local school districts and make decisions about district policies, budgets, facilities, and educational priorities.
➡️ OTHER LOCAL OFFICES
Depending on where you live, you may also elect township officials, assessors, clerks, treasurers, judges, and other local officials with specific responsibilities.
Why does this matter?
Local government has a direct impact on the communities where we live, work, learn, and raise our families. Understanding who does what can help you become a more informed voter and a more engaged member of your community.
👉 For more information and additional voter resources, visit: afpquadcities.com/s/Quad-Cities-Votes-Together-Handout.pdf
Quad Cities Votes Together is a 100% nonpartisan campaign. We do not support or oppose candidates or political parties. Our goal is to make sure eligible voters across the Quad Cities have access to accurate information and the resources they need to participate in elections.