Frederick County Government

**History** Frederick County transitioned from the County Commissioner form of government to the County Charter form of government on December 1, 2014. Under Charter Government, there is an Executive Branch with a County Executive and a Legislative Branch with a County Council. For many years, all five County Commissioners were elected in at-large elections by all county voters. Under the new Charter Government, the County Executive and only two of the County Council members are elected at-large. The seven-member County Council consists of five members elected by district and two elected at-large. Council members have the power to initiate legislation. Legislative sessions are limited to 45 days yearly and non-legislative sessions as needed. To find your district, click on the [Board of Elections](https://www.frederickcountymd.gov/DocumentCenter/View/338147/2022_CouncilCounty_34x44_FINAL?bidId=) link. County Council members serve for four years and no more than three consecutive terms, and receive $35,000 per year with no benefits.