Who Handles What in Virginia? State vs. County Responsibilities

One of the most common questions I hear from voters is, “What exactly does a County Supervisor do?” It’s a fair question — because in Virginia, the lines between state and county responsibilities can be confusing.

Many people assume that the Board of Supervisors oversees everything happening locally, but the truth is that some functions are firmly in the hands of the Commonwealth of Virginia, not Stafford County.

Understanding these differences is important. It not only helps residents know where to go with concerns, but it also highlights the areas where local leaders can make a real impact on our daily lives.

What the State Handles

The Commonwealth of Virginia manages several major services and offices, even though they operate locally.

• Courts & Judges – All courts (Circuit, General District, Juvenile & Domestic Relations) are part of the state judicial system. Judges are appointed at the state level, not by the county.

• Constitutional Officers – Positions like the Sheriff, Commonwealth’s Attorney, Treasurer, Clerk of Court, and Commissioner of Revenue are elected by Stafford voters but are established under the Virginia Constitution. They do not report to the Board of Supervisors.

• Highways & State Police – Interstates and many major roads (I-95, Route 1, Route 17) are managed by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). The Virginia State Police also operate under state authority.

• Public Education Standards – The Virginia Department of Education sets curriculum standards, testing (SOLs), and teacher licensing. Local school boards manage operations but must follow state requirements.

• Elections Oversight – While voting takes place locally, the Virginia Department of Elections governs the laws, voter registration system, and election certification.

• Public Health & Social Services – Local health districts and social services offices are part of statewide systems managed by Richmond.

• Licensing & Regulation – Driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, and business regulation (including alcohol sales through ABC) are all state-controlled.

• Taxes – The state collects income and sales taxes, while the county focuses on property taxes.

What the County Handles

The Stafford County Board of Supervisors does have significant responsibilities — but they are focused on local governance, land use, and community services.

• Budget & Property Taxes – The Board sets the county’s annual budget and determines property tax rates.

• Land Use & Development – Zoning, development approvals, and growth management are all county-level responsibilities.

• Local Roads – While VDOT manages major highways, the county plays a role in neighborhood road planning and maintenance coordination.

• Public Safety Services – Fire & Rescue, EMS, and 911 are county-managed services.

• Community Services – Parks, libraries, and community centers fall under county oversight.

• Local Ordinances – Issues like noise, litter, and zoning violations are governed locally.

• School Funding – While the state sets education standards, the county provides funding through the local budget.

Why This Matters

When residents know who handles what, they can direct their concerns to the right place — and hold the right leaders accountable. The Board of Supervisors does not oversee the courts, the Sheriff’s Office, or the state highways, but it does play a critical role in decisions about taxes, land use, development, and community services.

As a candidate for Hartwood District Supervisor, I believe it’s important to be transparent about the role of local government. My commitment is to focus on the areas where the Board can make a real difference for our families, our neighborhoods, and our future.

👉 Bottom line: The state and the county work together, but their responsibilities are different. Knowing the difference helps us all push for better results where it matters most.