Stanly County is a body politic and corporate, a legal person capable of holding and managing property and possessing many powers conferred on it by law. It exercises its powers and discharges its responsibilities through its Board of Commissioners. The mission of the Stanly County Board of Commissioners is to provide leadership and support,  and to advocate actions for an effective County Government that seeks to enhance the quality of life for present and future generations of the people of Stanly County. 

  The Board’s major responsibilities include adopting the annual County budget, setting the County property tax rate, and assessing and establishing priorities on the many community needs, especially those related to health, education, welfare, mental health and the environment. The Board also makes appointments to citizen advisory committees. Commission works with 30+ departments to serve the citizens of Stanly County. 

      The Stanly County Board of Commissioners is composed of five members elected at large for a period of four year staggered terms.  The members of the Board elect a chairman and vice chairman for a one year period.