What are the categories of local government in Illinois?

The categories of local government in Illinois primarily include counties, municipalities, and townships, making this the accurate answer.

Counties serve as the largest administrative subdivisions in the state and are essential for implementing state laws and managing local resources and services. Municipalities, which encompass various types of cities and villages, are responsible for governing more densely populated areas, providing city services like policing, zoning, and public works. Townships, while less significant in some areas due to overlaps with municipalities, still play a vital role in managing rural needs, including general assistance and property tax administration.

This structure reflects the organized framework established in Illinois, which allows for local governance tailored to the diverse needs of both urban and rural populations. Other options do not align with this established categorization, as regions and districts could refer to wider or less structured governmental units, and cities, towns, and states do not accurately represent Illinois law. Thus, the correct answer highlights the core types of local government specifically recognized and implemented within the state's legal and administrative framework.