Lonsmith, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lonsmith
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 Lonsmith
Location in California
Lonsmith
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Kern County |
| Elevation | 423 ft (129 m) |
Lonsmith is a small, quiet place in Kern County, California. It's known as an unincorporated community. This means it's a group of homes and businesses that isn't officially a city or town. Instead, it's governed by the county.
Lonsmith is located about 5 miles (8 kilometers) east-southeast of downtown Bakersfield. It sits near a railroad line. The area is about 423 feet (129 meters) above sea level.
Contents
What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community is a place where people live close together, but it doesn't have its own city government. It's different from a city like Los Angeles or San Francisco. Those cities have their own mayors and city councils.
How Unincorporated Communities are Governed
In an unincorporated community like Lonsmith, the county government handles services. This includes things like police, fire protection, and road maintenance. The county also manages zoning and building rules.
Why Some Places Stay Unincorporated
There are many reasons why a community might not become a city. Sometimes, the residents prefer to have the county manage things. This can sometimes mean lower taxes or simpler rules. Other times, the community might be too small to form its own city government.
Lonsmith's Location in Kern County
Lonsmith is part of Kern County, which is a large county in California. Kern County is known for its agriculture, oil production, and beautiful natural areas.
Geography Around Lonsmith
The area around Lonsmith is mostly flat, typical of the San Joaquin Valley. This valley is a very important farming region in California. The climate here is usually dry and warm, with hot summers and mild winters.
Nearby Bakersfield
Bakersfield is a much larger city close to Lonsmith. It offers many services and opportunities that smaller communities might not have. Residents of Lonsmith can easily access shopping, schools, and healthcare in Bakersfield.
Life in an Unincorporated Area
Life in an unincorporated community can be different from living in a big city. These areas often have a more rural or suburban feel. They might have larger properties and a slower pace of life.
Community Services
Even without a city government, residents of Lonsmith still receive important services. These are provided by Kern County. This includes things like emergency services and public works.
Local Activities and Lifestyle
While Lonsmith itself is small, its location near Bakersfield and the natural beauty of Kern County offer many activities. People can enjoy outdoor recreation, local events, and community gatherings in the wider area.
