A California special district is a form of local government - an agency that provides essential community services. Special districts are established and governed by residents of the area served by the district, a structure which allows for responsiveness to local needs and accountability to residents served.

Special-district boards are publicly accountable. Meetings are open, records are public and independent financial audits are required. In addition, board members participate in mandatory ethics training.

Special districts keep local dollars in the community. They are funded by fees for services provided as well as by local property taxes.

There are many types of special districts, including: community services districts (such as Twain Harte Community Services District), healthcare districts, veterans memorial districts, and more. For a complete list of special-district types, visit districtsmakethedifference.org.