The Durham County Government officially incorporated in 1853 in the state of North Carolina. It offers a variety of services through various departments and public utility segments. The county serves citizens with a focus on healthy environment, well-maintained infrastructure, and adequate, safe and affordable housing. The Durham County Government offers teen and adult care and mental health services, general nursing clinics, health inspections and permits, senior housing assistance, day care and institutional sanitation, adult services and child care, and employment and training assistance. The county functions through various departments, such as inspections, planning, animal control, emergency medical services, forest protection, human resources, information technology, public health, sheriff, tax administration and veteran services. It maintains an office in Durham, N.C.