Which of the following is NOT a power of the county?

Establishing public schools is indeed generally not a power held by counties. In most jurisdictions, the authority to establish public schools typically rests with independent school districts or boards of education, which operate separately from county government. While county governments may have some involvement in education policies or funding at a broader level, the direct establishment and governance of public schools fall under the purview of school boards that focus specifically on educational matters.

The other options represent functions commonly associated with county government. Counties can make and enforce local ordinances tailored to their specific environment and needs. They also have the ability to purchase and hold land for various purposes, such as parks, infrastructure, and public buildings. Furthermore, counties are often authorized to levy and collect taxes to fund various services they provide, including law enforcement, public health, and local infrastructure improvements.

Understanding the differentiation between powers of county governments and those of other entities, such as school districts, is crucial for recognizing how local governance operates within the framework of state law.