Fiscal Year 2011-2012 Adopted Budget - County of Sonoma

County Overview
Sonoma County, California, is a special place.
Its environments range from the surf-pounded cliffs of the coast to the golden Mayacamas Mountains, from
the cool stillness of redwood forests to the muddy marshes that feed San Francisco Bay. From the vineyards of
the Alexander Valley to high-tech Telecom Valley, the economy is strong and equally diverse.
This informational brochure offers an overview on the County of Sonoma, including population
characteristics, environment, and the various services and facilities provided to citizens.
Governance
County government functions as a local government body to
serve the needs of its residents. As geographical and political
subdivisions of the state, counties serve a dual role, providing
municipal services in unincorporated areas and acting as
administrative agents for state and federal government programs
and services. As a general-law county, Sonoma County is bound
by state law as to the number and duties of county elected
officials. Districts that are approximately equal in population
elect members of the Board of Supervisors. Boundaries are
adjusted every ten years following the federal census.
The Board of Supervisors establishes policies and sets priorities for all activities
within its jurisdiction. In addition, they oversee the functions and activities of the
many branches of county government that provide county-wide service including
health and welfare programs, elections, and public protection programs. The Board
of Supervisors also acts as the governing body that provides municipal services to
the unincorporated areas of the county such as fire protection and law enforcement,
land use regulations, road maintenance, parks, and lighting and water utilities.
The Board of Supervisors appoints the County Administrator, who assists the Board
in managing, directing, and coordinating the operations of all county departments.
The County Administrator also prepares the county budget and makes
recommendations to the Board to promote economy and efficiency in county
government operations.
County of Sonoma
FY 2011-2012 Adopted Budget
Bodega Bay
12
Hood Mountain Regional Park
The Board of
Supervisors
The County
Administrator
Overview