Your County Government

County government plays an integral part in our daily lives. County officials provide a measure of local decision-making over important matters that affect our families and our communities.  

County government is the best bargain for our tax dollars. — On average, only 17 percent of a Texan’s property tax bill goes to support their county government — that’s less than many people pay for a year of cable TV. Yet, their county delivers essential services needed in our communities. County government plays an integral part in our daily lives.

County government is responsive and accountable. — As the level of government closest to the people, county officials provide a measure of local decision-making over important matters that affect our families and our communities. County officials live and work within the communities that elected them, and perform jobs that provide essential services residents need. It’s truly government of the people.

Transparency is built into county government. — County governments are inherently transparent. They must abide by the state’s open meetings and public information laws. They also abide by strict transparency procedures set by statute when adopting budgets and setting tax rates.


Here Are Just a Few Things Bexar County Does for You

Provides Public Safety & Justice

County government keeps communities safe by providing law enforcement, the court system, jails, and emergency preparedness and response services in the event of natural and man-made disasters.

  • Law Enforcement
  • Court System
  • Jails

ElectionsHolds Elections at Every Level

No matter what kind of election you’re voting in — for local school board members, or for your county officials, for the next governor or even the next president of the United States — counties make sure your vote counts. 

  • Voter Registration
  • Elections Operations

Marriage LicenseMaintains Vital Records 

The County Clerk’s Office maintains and preserves the official and permanent records for the county, the county’s residents, and the court system.

  • Marriage Licenses
  • Birth Certificates
  • Property Deeds 
  • Death Certificates

Public WorksManages Public Works

Counties build and maintain nearly half the roads in Texas. They also maintain one in five of the state’s bridges.

  • Bridges
  • Roads
  • Traffic Lights and Signs
  • Storm Drainage
  • Fleet Maintenance
  • Animal Control

Behavior and Mental HealthProvides Health & Safety Services

From assisting with 911 support, to providing medical and mental health care, ensuring the health and welfare of county residents is another major area of responsibility.

  • Military & Veteran Services 
  • 911 support 
  • Health Care Services
  • Mental Health & Behavioral Health

Emergency Response TeamProvides Emergency Management

Counties are the first line of response in the event of an emergency — both natural and man-made. Counties are required to maintain an emergency management plan.

  • Wildfires
  • Natural & Man-Made Disasters
  • Infectious Disease Outbreaks