The term "local officials" refers to elected or appointed government representatives who are responsible for managing and overseeing local affairs in a specific geographic area. These individuals can include mayors, city council members, county commissioners, school board members, and other local administrators. They play an important role in shaping policies that affect their communities, such as zoning laws, public safety initiatives, transportation projects, education programs, and economic development efforts. The phrase "local officials" can also refer to individuals who hold positions within organizations or groups that represent the interests of a particular community or region.