Government & Politics

Quick Jump:

There are eight incorporated towns in Rutherford County and numerous small communities with fascinating histories. About two-thirds of the county's citizens live outside the incorporated areas. The county government operates under a County Manager who his hired by five elected County Commissioners to manage the affairs of the county. The bulk of the town dwellers reside in what is called the Tri-City area of Forest City, Rutherfordton and Spindale. The other incorporated areas are: Bostic, Chimney Rock, Ellenboro, Lake Lure and Ruth.

Each of the incorporated areas has their own elected officials, while the rest of the county are served by the County Commissioners.

Rutherford County joins with Cleveland County to form the State Senate District 46. State Senators serve two-year terms. A few precincts in Cleveland County join all of Rutherford County for the State House District 112. State Representatives serve four-year terms.

Rutherford County is split by two U.S. Congressional districts with District 11 having the southwestern portion of the county and District 10 the north and east.