The township form of government, modeled after the New England town meeting, was established in the United States after 1785, when federal legislation authorized states to create 36-mile square township rectangles. In Lake County, Ela Township was established in 1835 with Lake Zurich as its principal settlement.

The function of the township is to manage roadways, provide care for the needy and establish land values for use by other entities, such as the county and villages.

Care for the needy is an important part of the township function. In Ela, general assistance to the poor through holiday baskets, support of county shelters, and substance abuse programs has been expanded under the current leadership of Supervisor Robert Grever. Aid to the elderly is provided by assisting Meals On-Wheels, providing buses for the handicapped and seniors, and helping the Catholic Charities of Lake County. Youth programs like Omni Youth Services and post-prom activity programs are also given township assistance.

The township holds meetings every month to discuss budgets, problems, and outstanding business. The annual town meeting is held on the second Tuesday in April every year. At the this meeting, the budget for the upcoming year is discussed and voted on, the Supervisor gives his annual report, and citizens can voice their concerns about how the township is run. This is a good opportunity for residents to see early government traditions at work. This year's meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 8, at 7:30 p.m. in Ela Township Hall, just as it has been for the past century.