Missouri Constitution Article V - Judicial Department
Missouri Constitution – Article VI: Local Government
Article VI of the Missouri Constitution defines the structure, powers, and limitations of local governments, including counties, cities, towns, and special districts. This article outlines how local governments are created, governed, and interact with the state government.
🔷 Major Sections and Key Provisions:
1. Counties (Sections 1–18)
Describes how counties are formed, altered, or merged.
Allows counties to adopt charters for self-government (home rule).
Sets rules for county officers, terms, duties, and the assessment of property taxes.
2. Cities, Towns, and Villages (Sections 19–24)
Allows cities with over 5,000 residents to frame their own charters (home rule cities).
Provides guidelines for the formation and consolidation of municipalities.
Discusses annexation and incorporation procedures.
3. Special Districts (Sections 25–26)
Authorizes the formation of special purpose districts (e.g., fire protection, water supply).
Requires voter approval and sets limits on taxation and debt for these districts.
4. Intergovernmental Cooperation (Section 27)
Permits contracts and agreements between cities, counties, and even other states or the federal government, for cooperative services and projects.
5. St. Louis City and County (Sections 30–33)
Contains special provisions for St. Louis City and St. Louis County, including:
St. Louis City being independent from any county.
Procedures for reorganizing, consolidating, or merging the city and county governments.
6. Limitation on Taxation and Indebtedness (Various Sections)
Sets limits on property taxes, bonded debt, and special assessments for local governments.
Requires voter approval for most new taxes or debt.
🧾 Purpose and Impact:
Article VI empowers local entities to govern themselves within the framework of state law, while ensuring checks on taxing power, accountability, and state oversight. It balances local autonomy with the need for uniform governance standards.
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