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Local government entities in New York State have home rule authority granted them by the state legislature. This gives them considerable authority, and makes local governments in NYS important.
New York is divided into 62 counties and each of these is then broken further into local government units. Outside of NYC, the counties are divided into towns. Each town varies in size and population considerably. In Southwest NY the average size town is about 35-40 square miles. Each town is governed by a board and a supervisor all of whom are elected.
Inside of towns can be a village, though not every town has an incorporated village within its limits. The village is similarly run by a council and mayor, all of whom are elected.
Cities are stand alone units of government, not considered to be part of a town. A city is governed by a council and mayor, all of whom are elected.
The numbers of council/board members varies by locality. The terms can also vary.
For a very thorough description of local government function and powers in NYS, please visit the NYS Department of State website.
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