Sole commissioner

In local government in the United States, sole commissioner government is a county commission with only one seat. The sole commissioner typically holds all legislative and executive powers in the county. Even though with one commissioner there is no voiced debate among the commission, sole commissioners typically hold public meetings to allow public input on decisions.

Though the structure was historically more widespread, now Georgia is the only state in the United States to have counties governed by a sole commissioner. Debates over the establishment or removal of a sole commissioner government generally hinge on efficiency versus representation and debate.^[1][2]

Most counties with sole commissioners are small and rural. However, Bartow (part of exurban metro Atlanta) and Walker (part of metro Chattanooga) are notable exceptions.

Counties with sole commissioners

Currently in Georgia

• Bartow
• Bleckley
• Chattooga
• Murray
• Pickens
• Pulaski
• Towns
• Union
• Walker

Previously in Georgia

• Webster County, Georgia

References

1. ↑ Sole commissioner issue drawing interest again, The Catoosa County News, July 23, 2004.
2. ↑ Pickens' sole commissioner says simplicity works, Athens Banner-Herald, December 15, 1999.