Erie County is governed under a home rule charter which provides for the separation of legislative and executive functions. The Erie County Charter was enacted as Erie County Local Law No. 1 - 1959, and was approved by referendum on November 3, 1959, and became effective when filed with the Secretary of State on November 17, 1959. The County Executive, elected to a four year term, is the chief executive officer of the County. The County Legislature, consisting of 17 members elected to two year terms, is the County's governing body. Other elected positions are Comptroller, County Clerk, District Attorney, and Sheriff.