How Does Belknap County Work?
Belknap County, New Hampshire's smallest county in physical size, is more complicated to fund and operate than you think. Due to some Revolution-era rules, it's governance is also unusual, with weak county commissioners who, unfortunately, are subordinate to the state representatives, who have the final say on finances.
We're working on an 'explainer' to inform citizens on how our county government works. More coming soon!
Belknap County has responsibilities granted by the New Hampshire constitution . . . .
Responsibilities of Belknap County
Who Runs the County?
There are elected officials who make policy (County Delegation, County Commissioners), elected officials who execute policy (sheriff, county attorney and others), and employees who execute the county's responsibilities . . .
The County Commissioners
County Commissioners are elected on staggered terms from three voting districts in the county, apportioned by population. . . .
The County Delegation
Our County Delegation is composed of all 18 Belknap County state representatives, who in addition to representing us in Concord, have statutory duties for the county . . .
Who Pays for County Operations and How?
Each town and the City of Laconia collect taxes proposed by the three elected County Commissioners, and finalized by the County Delegation state representatives . . .
The Gunstock Mountain Recreation Area
Belknap County established the Gunstock Mountain Recreation Area, home to the Gunstock Resort, in 1938. It oversees its property through the Gunstock Area Commission . . .
The Role of County Agencies and Nonprofits
With its meager resources, Belknap County depends on outside agencies to help provide services to constituents, including agriculture and tourism services, pollution control, human services and mental health, and several other functions . . . .
Where Do I Go If I Have a Question?
The County maintains a website which can answer most questions. Meetings for County Commissioners and Delegation are broadcast, but you may attend in person at the County Complex . . .