NSDC Drafts Proposed Federal Definition for Special Districts

I am pleased to report that CSDA’s partnership with the National Special Districts Coalition (NSDC) continues to grow stronger and we have made significant progress toward its top federal policy priority by proposing a national definition for “special district.” With approximately 35,000 special districts serving as vital providers of local government services to millions of Americans across the country, the lack of a standardized definition has resulted in inconsistencies and difficulties for districts in accessing federal programs as well as gaining assistance for infrastructure projects and community programs.

The NSDC’s proposed definition, unanimously approved by the Executive Committee, provides a clear and concise description of a special district and reads as follows:

“Special District” – A political subdivision of a State, with specified boundaries, created pursuant to general law or act of the State, for the purpose of performing limited and specific governmental or proprietary functions, except that is not a school district, college, county, city, town, township, village, parish, borough, or other general purpose unit of government.

The NSDC’s proposal is the result of extensive outreach, research, and coalition building. The working group responsible for crafting the definition conducted thorough analyses and engaged with stakeholders from various states. Their efforts were supported by CSDA and the NSDC Advocacy Team and involved discussions with the U.S. Census Bureau to ensure alignment with federal government statistics as best as possible.

The importance of a national definition for special districts cannot be overstated. It serves as a benchmark for the term and allows for consistent identification and classification across the country. With a defined status, special districts can effectively advocate for their inclusion in federal programs and secure resources to provide essential services in their communities.

Additionally, a national definition enhances overall awareness of districts and enables policymakers to better understand the role and significance of special districts in the local government landscape and overall service delivery, leading to informed decision-making regarding program reauthorization and new initiatives.

The proposed definition is the first step as we now work to have it formally adopted. This will require significant outreach, and we encourage all CSDA members to Take Action and communicate your support as we move forward when we request assistance. We are confident that through these efforts, special districts will be better defined, understood, and equipped to fulfill their vital role in delivering essential services to communities nationwide.