Established in 1850 as one of the original counties of California, the County of San Luis Obispo is one of the largest employers in the area and provides essential services to SLO County citizens, including municipal services for the unincorporated areas and state or federal programs for all local jurisdictions. Elected representatives, including a five-member Board of Supervisors, work with employees to serve the community to enhance the economic, environmental and social quality of life of SLO County citizens.