Publications Catalog

09/29/2009 - What Do County Commissioners Do All Day?
This research brief provides an overview of the variety of responsibilities of County Commissioners.

09/29/2009 - Impact of the Economic Crisis on County Revenues
This research brief outlines the types of revenue sources for county governments and the effects of the current economic crisis on these revenue streams.

09/27/2009 - Role of the County Clerk
This research brief provides an overview of the duties and responsibilities of the County Clerk

09/14/2009 - Initiative and Referendum: Direct Democracy for States
Initiative and Referendum powers give state residents the ability to have a direct voice in the governing rules of their state’s constitution. These processes can also be an influential tool for local offi cials of counties and municipalities. This publication provide descriptions of each state’s requirements and regulations on the initiative and referendum processes.

08/14/2009 - Who's Listening In? Communications Policies for Counties
It is always important for county employees to remember that they work for and represent the people of their county. This handbook is designed to help guide counties in the creation of new communications policies or to better explain to employees why existing guidelines are in place.

07/28/2008 - The REAL ID Act of 2005
This brief provides a concise explanation of the REAL ID Act of 2005, specifically the section pertaining to the standardization of identification cards. The brief also describes the law's potential impacts on county governments.

11/13/2009 - Legislative Bulletin 11-13-09

11/06/2009 - Legislative Bulletin 11-06-09

10/30/2009 - Legislative Bulletin 10-30-2009

11/06/2009 - How Are Counties Doing? An Economic Status Survey - November 2009
In mid October 2009 NACo conducted a survey to look at the continuing impact of the economy on a sample of counties across the country. The sample group was made up primarily of midsize to smaller counties. Media reports of the impact of the economy have largely focused on the counties with the largest populations, but the majority of the counties in the country are midsize or smaller. This survey reveals that the downturn is widespread and is impacting counties of all sizes from several directions.

09/29/2009 - The Right Way to Run a Meeting
This pocket guide shows the steps and the rules according to Robert’s Rules of Order.

09/28/2009 - Alphabet Soup (PDF)
NACo’s Research Division has developed this guide to help you decipher the secret code of government.

08/04/2009 - Achievement Awards Tough Times Programs 2009
This publication showcases some of the positive practices being conducted at the county level during the current tough economic times.

08/04/2009 - Achievement Awards Best of Category 2009
Each year, NACo recognizes innovative county government programs with its Achievement Awards. The Best of Category designation provides additional special recognition for county initiatives that are particularly innovative, comprehensive or demonstrate an exceptional impact. This document describes the 2009 Best of Category programs.

08/27/2008 - Environmental Protection and Energy, Best Practices 2008
The NACo Achievement Award Program is a noncompetitive awards program which seeks to recognize innovation in county government operations. Select descriptions of 2008 award winning programs in the Environmental Protection and Energy award category will be helpful for counties seeking to establish similar initiatives.