COVERAGE OF 2021 NACo BOARD ADOPTS APPLICATIONS OPEN NACo LEGISLATIVE INTERIM POLICY FOR NACo/NATIONWIDE CONFERENCE . PGS. 3-8 RESOLUTIONS. PGS. 9-13 SCHOLARSHIPS . PG. 15

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES VOL. 53, NO. 5 MARCH 22, 2021 NACo BOARD VOTES TO HOLD 2021 ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, MD.

by Charlie Ban senior writer

The NACo Board voted March 19 to relocate the 2021 NACo Annual Conference to Prince George’s County, Md., revising the dates to July 9-12, at the Gaylord National Resort Franklin County, Pa. employees are among those who stepped up during the COVID-19 pandemic. Passage of the American Rescue Plan and Convention Center, just will allow counties to recover from a demand for services and reduced revenues during the resulting economic downturn. outside of Washington, D.C. The conference would be a hy- brid of in-person and remote programming. The Board also Counties pivot to implement historic win passed 27 interim policy res- olutions (see details on pages 9-13) that will help guide NA- of $65.1 billion in American Rescue Plan Co’s advocacy through July’s by Charlie Ban It will allow counties to replace to cut child poverty in half. County, Ky. Annual Business Meeting. senior writer lost, delayed or decreased rev- “This is truly a one-in-a- NACo solicited feedback and Julie Chávez Rodriguez, enue and will fund additional lifetime investment in coun- questions from members after White House Director of Inter- Following President Biden’s testing and vaccination mea- ty government that provides the March 11 signing, which governmental Affairs, spoke signature of the American Res- sures and resources to reopen much-needed relief and will were then summarized for the to the Board ahead of Pres- cue Plan, counties are figuring schools. It will also affect chang- be crucial to our nation’s re- Department of Treasury, which ident Joe Biden’s planned out how to best spend the $65.1 es that will buttress services that covery,” NACo President Gary will craft guidance for how the March 24 appearance. As billion in direct funding heading counties offer, such as funding Moore said of the bill. Moore is president-elect, Biden spoke their way in the next two years. to families that has the potential also judge/executive of Boone See RESCUE PLAN page 2 during the Fall Board Meeting, It’s the largest federal alloca- too. tion to county governments in Rodriguez said Treasury U.S. history, and it helps coun- Department guidance for ties recover from a combined NACo Broadband Task Force the American Rescue Plan’s demand for services during $65.1 billion in direct funding the COVID-19 pandemic and reduced revenues during the seeks solutions for counties See BOARD page 16 resulting economic downturn. by Rachel Looker tations, the pandemic has high- three dozen county government staff writer lighted the need for broadband officials. The group is focused infrastructure and the impor- on the challenges and opportu- As the United States bypass- tance of reliable internet speeds nities facing underserved com- es the one-year mark since the for all counties across the coun- munities and the intersection start of the COVID-19 pandem- try. of public and private sectors’ ic, counties are working to come NACo President and Boone efforts to deploy broadband. Its up with solutions to bridge the County, Ky. Judge/Executive goal is to create a blueprint for digital divide. Gary Moore announced in 2020 governments working to bridge From virtual learning to tele- the formation of NACo’s Broad- medicine and workforce adap- band Task Force comprised of See BROADBAND page 2 2 MARCH 22, 2021 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES COUNTY NEWS $10 billion for broadband is in Rescue Plan Distribution formula in the works From BROADBAND page 1 Internet below the FCC’s defi- From RESCUE PLAN page 1 fund their operations during SPEEDREAD nition of broadband, according the pandemic, nearly 62 per- the digital divide. FOUR SUBCOMMITTEES WITHIN to NACo’s connectivity report, money can be spent. Counties cent of counties contain un- In 2020, Congress passed the NACo’S BROADBAND TASK FORCE “Understanding the True State will not have to suballocate taxable public lands, but must Broadband Data Act which re- HAVE ESTABLISHED GOALS TO of Connectivity in America.” their funding to cities and towns still provide services. The Trea- quires the Federal Communi- ADDRESS THE DIGITAL DIVIDE IN As more internet disparities or ask states for the suballo- sury Department will develop a cations Commission (FCC) to THE FOLLOWING AREAS: have become apparent because cations, as they did under the distribution formula based on change the way broadband data of the pandemic, the recently CARES Act. There will be some counties’ poverty and unem- is collected, verified and report- ● Preparing for broadband passed American Rescue Plan restrictions on funding use, ployment rates, household in- ed. The FCC secured funding ● Barriers to buildout includes $10 billion for capital such as funding pensions or come and land value. through a provision in the year- ● The Digital Divide projects, including broadband cutting taxes, but generally the “We truly appreciate Sen. Ron end funding package Congress infrastructure, for states, local- money should be used to ad- Wyden’s (D-Ore.) efforts on our ● Future-proofing the local passed in December and is now ities, territories and tribal gov- dress the COVID-19 pandemic behalf recognizing that public economy moving forward with the imple- ernments. Projects may relate and its negative impacts. lands counties have been hit mentation of the legislation. to enabling work, education, “The implementation is al- pretty hard,” said Greg Chil- Additionally, the FCC ad- tomers. health monitoring and remote most as important as getting the cott, a Ravalli County, Mont. opted new rules for the Digital These rules set standards for options. An additional $7 bil- plan passed in the first place,” commissioner who serves as Opportunity Data Collection to collecting broadband deploy- lion has been allotted to the said Mark Ritacco, NACo’s di- president of NACo’s Western In- ensure the accurate collection ment data from state, local and FCC for its Emergency Con- rector of government affairs. terstate Region. “We really ap- of broadband deployment data. tribal mapping entities. nectivity Fund and E-Rate pro- “The reason we’re here is be- preciate the fact that [Congress] The new rules specify the fixed NACo previously launched gram, which helps schools and cause of the work of our mem- realizes we’re in a deficit posi- and mobile broadband service the “TestIT” mobile app that libraries support virtual learn- bers, the credibility that our tion and we will put this money providers that are required to emphasizes the need for com- ing. This plan allows counties to members brought to the federal to good use for our citizens.” report availability and coverage plete and accurate broadband make necessary investments in policy discussion, so therefore Estimates of how much each data. data. The app highlights the broadband infrastructure. all of NACo’s comments about county will be allocated, based The rules also adopt require- gaps in the FCC’s broadband Each subcommittee will re- how to implement this plan will on 2019 population, are avail- ments for reporting speed for maps, which are used by federal port on their identified goals be informed by our members.” able in NACo’s COVID-19 Re- fixed technologies and requires agencies to determine funding during the task force’s monthly In addition, public lands covery Clearinghouse. Counties that fixed broadband internet needs for investments. meeting on March 24. The lives- counties will share an addition- will receive their allocations in access providers report whether Data collected from the app tream link is available to stream al $1.5 billion over two years. two parts — within 60 days of broadband services are offered found that roughly 65 percent of for Legislative Conference at- While some counties have re- to residential and business cus- all counties are experiencing the tendees. lied on property taxes to help See RESCUE PLAN page 14

2021 NACo ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

CELEBRATING NATIONAL PEANUT MONTH

PERCENT OF U.S. STATE PRODUCTION Georgia...... 49% Florida...... 11% Alabama...... 10% Texas...... 9% Apply today at North Carolina...... 8% NACo.org/AchievementAwards Source: National Peanut Board

President Editor and ADVERTISING STAFF Published by: The appearance of paid advertisements in County POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Gary W. Moore Senior Writer Job Market/Classifieds National Association of Counties News in no way implies support or endorsement County News, 660 N. Capitol Street, N.W. Mary Ann Barton by the National Association of Counties for any of Publisher representative Research Foundation, Inc. STE. 400, Washington, D.C. 20001 Matthew Chase Digital Editor 660 N. Capitol Street, N.W. STE. 400, the products, services or messages advertised. National Accounts (USPS 704-620) n (ISSN: 0744-9798) and Senior Writer Washington, D.C. 20001 Periodicals postage paid at Washington D.C. and Chief Public © National Association of Counties Charlie Ban representative 202.393.6226 | FAX 866.752.1573 other offices. Affairs Officer Research Foundation, Inc. Brian Namey Staff Writer Mary Ann Barton E-mail [email protected] Mail subscriptions are $100 per year for non-mem- Rachel Looker 202.942.4223 Online address www.countynews.org bers. $60 per year for non-members purchasing Design Director FAX 866.752.1573 multiple copies. Educational institution rate, $50 per Leon Lawrence III year. Member county supplemental subscriptions are $20 each. Send payment with order and address changes to NACo, 660 N. Capitol Street, N.W. STE. We are committed to getting County News on your desktop ASAP. Send your address corrections to [email protected]. 400, Washington, D.C. 20001. COUNTY NEWS NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES MARCH 22, 2021 3

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have been received. Some ing to really need to figure out TRANSPORTATION parts of the reauthorization a way to unlock the economic that passed the committee in growth that this country is go- 2019 may be retained. ing to need once we get into REAUTHORIZATION Capito is prioritizing a long- the post-pandemic economy,” term investment. he said. “At the end of every “If we can agree on anything, pandemic in the history of BILL IS ON THE MOVE I think that that is one of the the world — the economy, the things that everybody very culture, things change, and by Charlie Ban much so does agree with, that certainly the way we travel is senior writer we need this long-term com- going to change. Being able to mitment so that we can plan unleash that economic growth, Two days after the U.S. Sen- and move forward and really to support what will be a new ate passed its $1.9 trillion start to make some improve- American economy, is going COVID-19 relief package, all ments on our transportation to be incredibly, incredibly im- eyes in the Transportation infrastructure,” Baker said. portant.” Steering Committee turned to Capito also stresses the need Small also reminded coun- the surface transportation re- for local flexibility, to allow lo- ty officials that they could use authorization that has been ru- cal leaders to make their own federal transit funds to set up mored to be another swing for decisions on how infrastruc- vaccination sites. the fences. Congressional staffer Lauren Baker discusses legislation with ture plays out in their commu- “There are a lot of important Lauren Baker, a staffer for members of NACo’s Transportation Steering Committee. nities. things happening right now, U.S. Senate Environment and “If you have specific [re- but vaccines are the most Public Works Committee first hearing, a week prior, had the finish line.” quests], get them to us early,” important thing happening Ranking Member Shelly Moore a distinctly bipartisan tone. Chairman Tom Carper Baker said. now,” he said. “By setting up Capito (R-W.Va.), said the bill That reflected an Oval Office (D-Del.) has a goal to get the Charles Small, deputy as- sites there, it will allow you to would take a more bipartisan meeting President Biden called bill out of committee before sistant secretary for intergov- vaccinate your transportation tack. with Transportation Secretary Memorial Day. ernmental affairs at the U.S. workers in a more efficient “There’s a lot of talk out there Pete Buttigieg. “That’s very soon, but it’s also Department of Transportation, manner. about infrastructure and that “To me, that was really indic- quite realistic…if we are going echoed Baker’s thoughts, from “More people are going to we might see this other very ative of the priority of this and to meet that Sept. 30 deadline the Biden administration’s be using the transportation large infrastructure package their willingness to work bipar- [when the current authoriza- side, about the scope of the bill, system, and so it’s going to be come together as well, but our tisanly and their willingness to tion expires]. It’s going to be calling it a “once-in-a-genera- vitally important to protect the goal right now is that we’re go- allow the committee to do the quick.” tion investment” that will last integrity of our transportation ing to do the reauthorization work that we need to do here, Negotiations are scheduled 20 to 30 years. system to ensure its workers bill in regular order, in commit- to actually put together a reau- to begin after March 19, once “Part of the reason we think are protected with the vac- tee,” she said, noting that the thorization bill to get it across all senators’ inputs for the bill we need to do this is we’re go- cine.” 4 MARCH 22, 2021 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES COUNTY NEWS EPA officials commit to county partnerships to help reach local environmental goals by Rachel Looker county officials. really help make water infra- make that happen.” staff writer “We welcome at EPA your structure more effective and In other business, members input and collaboration from hopefully more affordable for of the Environment, Energy and Environmental and climate ensuring clean air and water to everyone.” Land Use Policy Steering Com- priorities for the Biden admin- are consistent with science, addressing PFAS [certain man- Piziali is working to plan sev- mittee debated two proposed istration and the Environmen- adhere to the law, and protect made chemicals], from land eral integrative planning efforts interim policy resolutions while tal Protection Agency (EPA) will public health and the climate. use to waste management,” he that are of interest to county of- passing two others. focus on climate change, envi- Rules relate to methane from said. “The environmental chal- ficials including a partnership Committee members passed ronmental justice and restoring oil and gas operations, the lenges we’re facing are really with the EPA’s Environmental a resolution encouraging Con- fact-based decision-making, fuel economy, greenhouse gas complex and can only really Finance Centers to provide gress to enact the National Heri- according to Casey Katims, the emission standards and mercu- be addressed through a strong technical assistance to munici- tage Area Act for congressional- EPA’s deputy associate admin- ry limits. partnership between the feder- palities that need assistance de- ly designated National Heritage istrator for Intergovernmental Specifically on the local level, al and local levels.” veloping integrative plans. Areas. Members passed a sec- Affairs. Katims said the administration The EPA’s Municipal Om- The Finance Centers will also ond resolution to enhance pol- Katims discussed President is committed to supporting en- budsman Jamie Piziali spoke be holding an integrative plan- linator species and their habi- Biden’s executive orders re- vironmental goals from electri- with the committee about clean ning peer-to-peer exchange fo- tats throughout counties. lated to the environment with fying transportation systems to water issues. cused on municipalities. A third resolution proposed county officials during the -En advancing environmental jus- In her role, Piziali serves as Elizabeth Knoll, U.S. Depart- to include local government vironment, Energy and Land tice and increasing recycling. an independent, impartial and ment of Energy deputy assis- entities within the Clean Water Use Policy Steering Committee He said the agency is com- confidential resource to assist tant secretary for the Office of Act Section 404 Permitting Ex- meeting March 9 during NACo’s mitted to its partnership with municipalities including cities, Congressional and Intergovern- clusions. Virtual Legislative Conference. counties. towns, counties, boroughs, par- mental Affairs, added that focus Lafourche Parish, La. Presi- Biden issued an executive “We know that you’re on the ishes, tribes, associations and areas related to energy for the dent Archie Chaisson said the order that calls for embedding frontlines of protecting your other public bodies that have new administration center on resolution is asking for exemp- environmental justice into all communities and ensuring the jurisdiction over sewer and in- energy jobs and energy justice. tions to reduce costs and time federal policy decision-making, health and safety of your res- dustrial waste. The department is looking for during the permitting process which included creating a new idents 24/7 and we can really “We’re certainly all going to ways to leverage programs to for everyday work completed by White House Environmental only do our job by developing need to work together on more support job growth throughout county public works agencies. Justice Interagency Council and fostering and cultivating innovative ways to address the transition to clean energy, “Just because there is a con- which the EPA has been chosen that really close partnership,” he Clean Water Act requirements she explained, ensuring that nection between a wetland to lead, Katims said. said. to help communities who are communities are not being left environment and a drainage Through an additional execu- The EPA is seeking nominees addressing tough concerns like behind. ditch on an urban street, we tive order by Biden, Katims said starting March 12 for its Local through overflows or advance “We believe that clean energy should not be forced to permit the EPA is reviewing all environ- Government Advisory Commit- treatment needs,” she said. can and will support good pay- and then mitigate for that work mental rules from the Trump tee and Small Communities Ad- “More holistic, more thought- ing quality union jobs,” she said. being done on the urban street,” administration to ensure they visory Committee for interested ful and innovative planning can “We’ve got a lot of work to do to he said. Other committee members emphasized the importance of protecting wetlands and said ACCELERATE VACCINE DISTRIBUTION FOR they were concerned with the broad wording of the resolution STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS describing it as a “blanket ex- clusion” for local governments. 5 Components for Successful Vaccine Distribution in Your Community The committee voted to table the resolution; however, later in the meeting, members passed Scheduling Reaction State an amended resolution speci- Portal Monitoring Reporting fying the exemptions were for “public works general mainte- nance and repair projects.” Inventory Public Health A fourth proposed resolution Tracking Dashboards supported the development of a national equity map to obtain accurate geographic data that would enable counties to assess the systemic barriers under- served communities face when Free Recording of March 24, 2021 Webinar accessing county programs. Presenters from Microsoft and Mazik Global Members debated the reso- lution, arguing the equity map would create more division and lacks the time frame to collect accurate data, specifically in rural counties. The resolution passed 16-15. COUNTY NEWS NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES MARCH 22, 2021 5 USDA speakers present rural, agricultural programs and priorities to NACo members by Charlie Ban senior writer

President Biden has made the fight against climate change a centerpiece of his administra- tion and agriculture figures into being a major part of that prior- ity. Robert Bonnie, USDA’s dep- uty chief of staff for policy and senior advisor on climate, told members of NACo’s Agricul- ture and Rural Affairs Steering Committee March 8 that some attitudes toward climate policy have shifted significantly since his first stint at USDA during the Obama administration.

“Whatever we build has to work in rural, it has to work for agriculture and forestry.”

“There was a lot of trepidation Robert Bonnie, USDA’s deputy chief of staff for policy and senior advisor on climate, speaks to NACo members March 8. around climate policy, cap and trade policy, how it would im- ● Enhancing USDA conser- pact agriculture and forestry in vation incentive programs to 2009 and 2010,” he said. “Today, partner with farmers, ranchers there’s a lot more interest from and foresters around climate some of the commodity groups, smart practices sponse with regard to food and from folks in forestry, around cli- ● Finding ways for USDA to nutrition, rural development, mate change policy and the op- bolster private investment in food programs and farm worker portunities, incentives and mar- climate smart agriculture and safety. kets to reward landowners and forestry and removing the risk In responding to 30 million producers for ‘climate smart’ involved in adopting those adults and 14 million children agriculture.” practices at risk of food insecurity, USDA He acknowledged there is re- ● Building tools for producers has allowed state, tribes and maining skepticism about envi- to better understand the impli- territories to serve free meals ronmental policy and ensured cations of climate-smart prac- to children, increased and ex- Sara Bleich, a senior advisor at USDA, speaks to NACo members. that it would work with agricul- tices and lowering the cost of panded Supplemental Nutrition ture and forestry practices. participation Assistance Program benefits, of underlying health conditions, learning resources, extend evic- “Anything we want to do at ● Improving the resilience of increased funding to food banks age, lack of health insurance tion and foreclosure moratoria USDA, we want to look for ways agriculture and forestry in the and expanded markets between and difficulty accessing medical for single-family borrowers and that incentivize and markets face of climate change agricultural producers and food care. multi-family residents and dis- and other positive approaches ● Ensuring climate-smart banks. “This administration will pri- tribute the $278 billion available to climate change that can work practices are available to farm- The department has also in- oritize economic development through the Rural Development in rural America,” he said. “That ers of all different sizes and cul- creased EBT benefits, allowed and growth in rural America by Business and Industry CARES will be a critical tenant of every- tural backgrounds states to expand SNAP benefits making it central to USDA’s mis- Act program. thing we do.” “Whatever we build has to to the lowest-income house- sion,” she said. “To do that, we Bleich noted that many of the He touted soil health, cover work in rural, it has to work for holds and revised the Thrifty will harness the vast and power- 45 percent of Americans who crops, improved nutrient man- agriculture and forestry,” he said. Food Plan to reflect the cost of a ful resources of USDA to target remain reluctant to seek out a agement and methane capture More immediately, the Biden healthy basic diet. underserved communities and COVID-19 vaccine live in rural as climate policy practices that administration is targeting the Bleich noted that with a death those who have been marginal- areas, so she stressed the impor- could align agriculture and for- COVID-19 pandemic and the re- toll of more than 80,000, rural ized.” tance of county governments est management as a key for for- sulting economic downturn. Americans are dying at a higher The department will contin- communicating the benefits of estry. Sara Bleich, senior advisor for rate (in rural areas with fewer ue traditional USDA Rural De- the vaccines to their residents, Bonnie noted that his work is COVID-19 at USDA, outlined than 10,000 people) than in ur- velopment programs, but also with whom they remain trusted focused on five policy areas: the department’s role in the re- ban areas. That is likely a result expand telehealth and distance messengers. 6 MARCH 22, 2021 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES COUNTY NEWS Wildfire, increased visitors vex BLM, Forest Service by Charlie Ban busy season,” he told the Pub- senior writer lic Lands Steering Committee March 12. “It really depends The National Interagency on how lightning comes in, Fire Center spent 45 days of whether it comes in wet or 2020 at the highest prepared- dry. We know we’re going ness level in a year when to have enough firefighting 58,250 fires claimed 10.2 mil- resources, both aerial and lion acres of American land. ground-based to manage our workload, but some of these fire seasons we’ve been hav- ing lately have really been taxing us, the whole nation, so we’re really trying to bol- Grant Beebe, the Bureau of ster parts of our program.” Land Management’s assistant The La Niña weather pat- director for fire and aviation, tern in 2021 figures to leave said that current weather pat- the American Southwest dry- terns could mean similar tolls er, which on one hand will Chris French, associate deputy chief of the U.S. Forest Service, talks with NACo members March 12. on the nation’s public lands, cause drought conditions, which include more than 1 but on the other, will prevent The bureau’s rural readi- equipment to local depart- sales would remain a key part million acres that the bureau grass from easily carrying fire, ness outreach to local fire- ments, including 35 wildland of green infrastructure and manages. moderating the wildfire threat fighters has involved free fire engines with $3,000 each crucial to the Biden adminis- “We’re expecting a pretty somewhat. training and transferring worth of firefighting tools and tration’s climate policy. radio systems. “Sequestering carbon in Chris French, the associate national forests, sequestering deputy chief of the U.S. For- that carbon into long-term est Service, said that the ex- storage and building products isting relationships between is a key cycle that we want to I LOVE MY the service and local govern- continue to emphasize and ments helped both weather support,” he said. COUNTY the 2020 wildfire season. He acknowledged that na- “If we didn’t have those tional policies can interfere BECAUSE... foundations it would have with local priorities. been even more challenging,” “We’re going to try to make ART he said. sure we don’t do that,” he Even so, the status quo said. “Just looking at things CONTEST won’t cut it. such as recreation alone…we “We know the scale of our recognize that that can have actions are not meeting the impacts and we want to work scale of the problem of wild- together with both about the fires,” he said. infrastructure that’s associat- “We’re starting to really un- ed with that, the access that’s derstand how to target that associated with that but also work but we’re also trying to how do you turn that into sus- be real with the folks on the tained, long-term good jobs [Capitol] Hill and our com- for folks?” munity partners that at the The Forest Service saw a end of the day, we just have to more than 200 percent in- do a lot more.” crease in visitation to parks He noted that the growing during the pandemic in 2020 cost of fire suppression was and 30 percent of visitors affecting budgets for other were new to the system. Forest Service priorities, in- “We’re really looking at this cluding fire prevention, but right now and trying to ad- also for permit delivery, land vocate for and make adjust- exchanges and other busi- ments in the way we deliver ness opportunities that would our facilities, our access, our benefit counties. recreation opportunities,” he French noted that reducing said. low-value timber without a “There are a lot of lessons Winning artwork will be featured in robust market for it remained to be learned from last year, a “Counties Matter” calendar, a vexing problem, so he asked how to keep people safe and in County News and at NACo counties to offer ideas for do that work and that comes headquarters in Washington, D.C. incentives that would help with close coordination with move what is hazardous fuel county health agencies, local Visit naco.org/art for all the details! wood. law enforcement and really He also stressed that timber trying to work together.” COUNTY NEWS NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES MARCH 22, 2021 7 LUCC members briefed on vaccinations, transportation and infrastructure

by Rachel Looker staff writer

The COVID-19 vaccination program is building momen- tum, according to Nancy Mes- sonnier, director of the Centers for Disease Control’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Disease. As of March 10, Messonnier said 60 percent of individu- als over the age of 65 have re- ceived at least the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

“The entire country real- ly has to be coming together around this vaccine imple- mentation or we’re never going Nancy Messonnier, director of the CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Disease, addresses NACo members. to achieve the full success,” she told members of NACo’s Large who know your communities coordination, consistency in Urban County Caucus (LUCC) to build out a plan for how guidance and overall public March 10 during NACo’s Virtu- you’re going to best vaccinate,” health system response. al Legislative Conference. she said. “It’s not just about the health Messonnier emphasized the In Franklin County, Ohio, department, it’s about our en- importance of counties and vaccination efforts have fo- tire public health system,” he communities coming together cused on equity. said. “That includes all of our to ensure successful vaccine Franklin County Public county governments, nonprof- distribution and said the CDC’s Health Commissioner Joe Maz- its and healthcare partners as COVID data tracker, which fea- zola said the county has creat- well.” tures state-by-state vaccine ed an equitable COVID-19 vac- LUCC members also heard data, will soon have county cine strategy that is focused on the latest updates on the Biden The Department of Transportation’s Christopher Coes speaks with level statistics to provide full communication, engagement administration’s infrastructure NACo’s Large Urban County Caucus (LUCC) members. visibility of what’s happening and access. agenda from Christopher Coes, at the local level. In the diverse county of 1.3 the Department of Transpor- operations, airports and Am- lic transportation services in “You’re going to see over the million residents, the public tation’s principal deputy assis- trak. communities with populations next six weeks a substantive in- health department focuses on tant secretary for Transporta- He added that the adminis- of more than 100,000. crease in vaccine supply and in adopting equity as the foun- tion Policy. tration is focused on provid- “That is going to require not order to fully take advantage of dation for conducting its daily With the House passing the ing reliable, convenient public only federal government sup- that increasing vaccine supply, work. American Rescue Act, Coes transportation for the coun- port, but it’s also going to re- we’re going to need to turn on There are currently 65 pan- said the relief includes fund- try’s essential workers and said quire us to coordinate with our every channel that we can in demic providers in the county ing to support transportation, Biden has committed to en- local and state partners on the order to administer vaccines,” including the public health transit, public transportation sure there is high quality pub- ground,” he said. she said. department, hospitals, phar- She advised county officials macies and community health to prepare for an increase in centers, he said. Each provider supply as more vaccines be- had to receive approval from come available and highlight- the state. ed programs to aid in distri- Mazzola said fire and EMS bution including the Retail personnel have also become Pharmacy Program, the Health pandemic providers. The Hire Quality Staff @ Jobs Online Center COVID-19 Vaccine health department is now allo- Program which ensures un- cating vaccines to local fire and derserved communities are EMS departments to go into www.naco.org/jobsonline equitably vaccinated and the the community to start to vac- Federal Emergency Manage- cinate underserved areas. ment Agency’s Community For Mazzola, lessons learned Vaccination Centers. throughout the pandemic in- “This is a time for all of you clude the importance of local 8 MARCH 22, 2021 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES COUNTY NEWS

Ruby Lopez Harper, with Americans for the Arts, addresses members of NACo’s Arts and Culture Commission March 11.

Americans for the Arts is Arts and culture promoting and endorsing a framework called the Cultural New Deal that provides specific advance equity, measures to be considered to advance work when focusing on equity. bridge racial “I encourage you to be hum- ble in this moment — listen, invite, open the door to what is possible and make space for divides business not as usual,” she said. Former Oakland County, Mich. Commissioner Shelley Taub ac- “This is an energized moment cepted the Public Leadership in the Arts Award. by Rachel Looker that can push practice and capi- staff writer talize on a dedication and com- what strategies focus more on as investing in artists of col- mitment to making every com- equity. The Cultural Equity Plan or, realigning public arts and With the last year highlight- munity better.” serves as a tool to provide guid- culture investments for racial ing racial disparities related to movement and the rise in trans- Axel Santana, an associate ance and resources for commu- equity and creating alignment the COVID-19 pandemic and parency around how organi- with Policy Link, a national nities interested in forming a between investment and demo- inequalities among communi- zations are taking actions and research and action institute plan dedicated to accomplish- graphic populations. ties of color, county officials are not just delivering lip service,” advancing racial and econom- ing equity through the arts and To celebrate the accomplish- turning to the role the arts can Lopez Harper said. ic equity, said arts and culture culture. ments of county officials’ efforts play in advancing racial equal- County arts agencies can im- play a more important role than “If cities and regions hope in the arts and culture sector, ity. plement equitable practices in just entertainment in serving as to build on this vibrancy and Jay Dick, senior director of state Ruby Lopez Harper, vice pres- their role serving as the center a tool to advance equity. address the historical and un- and local government affairs ident of equity and local arts en- point of arts and culture in com- “Working with artists and der-investments in communi- at Americans for the Arts, pre- gagement for Americans for the munities, she said. cultural organizers and em- ties of color, it’s important to sented the Public Leadership in Arts, told members of NACo’s develop and implement cultur- the Arts Award for County Arts Arts and Culture Commission “This is an energized moment that can push practice al plans by bringing an explicit Leadership to Shelley Taub, March 11 during the Virtual racial and ethnic demographic former Oakland County, Mich. Legislative Conference that the and capitalize on a dedication and commitment to lens to planning,” he said. commissioner and former Arts arts have not been an outlier making every community better.” —Lopez Harper Santana said this includes and Culture Commission chair. in the focus on equity. She said ensuring that all people are rep- Taub worked in Oakland there have been numerous calls “They [county art agencies] bedding creative practices into resented in the development of County to appropriate $2 mil- for the arts to diversify their have positional power and ad- your work, we believe can help arts policy and that there are lion in federal CARES Act fund- leadership. vocacy and mobilization muscle open up a world of possibilities venues for the fair distribution ing to support cultural insti- “What this has meant for and at this moment, it is very in your journey to achieving eq- of resources. tutions that were impacted by the field is a renewed energy important that we consider their uitable outcomes for your com- He added that creating op- COVID-19 and has been a pro- around anti-racist practice, place in recovery efforts and munity,” he said. portunities for policies in the ponent of the cultural and eco- adoption of statements sup- look at them as part of the recov- Policy Link completed an arts and culture sector aid in nomic value of the arts through- porting the Black Lives Matter ery infrastructure,” she said. analysis of cultural plans to see equitable development such out her career. COUNTY NEWS NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES MARCH 22, 2021 9

BOARD ADOPTS NEW POLICIES RANGING FROM BEES TO BROADBAND NACo’S POLICY STEERING COMMITTEES AND THEIR SUBCOMMITTEES MET DURING THE CONFERENCE TO CONSIDER NEW LEGISLATIVE POLICIES. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS APPROVED 27 INTERIM POLICY RESOLUTIONS MARCH 19. THESE INTER- IM POLICY RESOLUTIONS WILL SUPPLEMENT EXISTING NACo POLICY UNTIL NACo’S HYBRID 2021 ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, MD. (NATIONAL HARBOR). THE APPROVED INTERIM RESOLUTIONS ARE: COMMUNITY, formula funding; no less than uled to expire March 31, 2021. ments use tax-exempt bonds for on June 30, 2021. Long-term $1.7 billion in formula funding PROPOSED POLICY: NACo urg- 50 percent of aggregate basis of authorization by the U.S. Con- ECONOMIC AND for the HOME Investment Part- es the federal government to buildings and land in order to ac- gress is needed to ensure the WORKFORCE nerships Program (HOME); $3 implement a comprehensive cess the 4 percent Low Income Program can achieve maximum DEVELOPMENT billion for Homeless Housing halt on residential evictions Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) is economic impact and job cre- FY 2022 Assistance grants, including at to prevent the further spread an inefficient use of scarce- pri ation by creating certainty in the Appropriations for the least $290 million for the Emer- of COVID-19 until the federal vate activity bond (PAB) author- marketplace. U.S. Department of gency Solutions Grant program public health emergency dec- ity. PROPOSED POLICY: NACo Housing and Urban plus an amount to fully fund laration is rescinded. NACo fur- PROPOSED POLICY: NACo sup- supports bipartisan federal Development expiring supportive housing and ther urges Congress to provide ports legislation to amend Sec- legislation developed by Sen- Shelter Plus Care rent subsidy additional funding and flexi- tion 42 of the Internal Revenue ator Grassley (R-IA) and Sen- ISSUE: Support Fiscal Year contracts; expansion of the Sec- bility to state, county, local and Code to lower the aggregate ator Leahy (D-VT) to reautho- 2022 appropriations for the U.S. tion 8 voucher program in addi- tribal governments to admin- basis for housing developments rize the EB-5 Regional Center Department of Housing and Ur- tion to full funding for existing ister rental assistance and ad- using private activity bonds Program for five years and ban Development (HUD). Section 8 project-based and ditional housing stability sup- from 50 percent to 25 percent in to ensure any reform of the PROPOSED POLICY: NACo tenant-based contracts; $40 mil- ports throughout the duration order to increase the amount of EB-5 Regional Center Program urges Congress to support the lion for HUD-Veterans Affairs of the COVID-19 public health 4 percent Low Income Housing maintains the ability to deliver following levels of funding for Supportive Housing (VASH) emergency. Tax Credits available to develop job-creating capital to Ameri- core U.S. Department of Hous- and $500 million in Section 108 more affordable housing. can communities, avoids ret- ing and Urban Development Loan Guarantee authority. Change Private roactive application of new (HUD) programs in the Fiscal Activity Bond Permanently law on matters already filed, Year (FY) 2022 Transportation, Expand Federal Requirements to Authorize EB-5 allows for economic impact Housing and Urban Develop- Residential Eviction Increase the Use of Regional Center models to be used in measur- ment, and Related Agencies Moratorium Low-Income Housing Program ing job creation and enhances Appropriations bill: no less than ISSUE: The federal halt on Tax Credits ISSUE: The EB-5 Region- program integrity measures. $4.2 billion in Community De- residential evictions during the ISSUE: The requirement that al Center Program (the “Pro- velopment Block Grant (CDBG) COVID-19 pandemic is sched- affordable housing develop- gram”) authorization expires See RESOLUTIONS page 10 10 MARCH 22, 2021 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES COUNTY NEWS Protect pollinators, develop National Equity Map From RESOLUTIONS page 9 prospect in the next few years. is critical that the federal gov- (EPA) and U.S. Army Corps of GOVERNMENTAL The National Heritage Area ernment work collaboratively Engineers (Army Corps) to in- AFFAIRS ENVIRONMENT, Act will replace this haphazard with state and local officials to clude local government public system of individual reautho- expand efforts to reverse pol- works general maintenance Revise IRS Code ENERGY AND rizations with a standardized, linator losses and help restore and repair projects in Clean to Enhance Private LAND USE nationwide program. In De- populations to healthy levels. Water Act Section 404 permit- Sector Investments cember 2020, similar legisla- PROPOSED POLICY: NACo sup- ting exclusions. in Growing County Enact the National tion was approved by the U.S. ports federal efforts to protect Economies Heritage Area Act to House on a bipartisan voice pollinators by working collab- Development a ISSUE: Federal income tax- Establish Uniform vote but was not acted on by oratively with state and local National Equity Map ability of government econom- Criteria, Oversight, the Senate. officials on best management ISSUE: Access to geographic ic development grants is dis- Accountability and PROPOSED POLICY: NACo urg- practices to enhance pollina- data at a scale and resolution is incentivizing businesses and Funding Stability es Congress to pass the Nation- tor-friendly habitat and en- the framework for policy deci- developers from investing in for congressionally al Heritage Area Act of 2021, courages our federal partners sions. It is critical that accurate our counties. designated National as it will assist counties to en- to provide education, technical data is available to develop PROPOSED POLICY: NACo urg- Heritage Areas hance their historic, cultural assistance, conservation efforts policies on current county is- es Congress to eliminate the ISSUE: Currently, 591 coun- and natural resources. and incentives to conserve pol- sues, such as social inequity federal taxation of government ties across the country are linators’ health. accentuated by civil unrest, grants as contributions to the home to 55 National Heritage Protect and Enhance the COVID-19 pandemic, and capital of a business under Areas (NHAs) authorized by Pollinator Species Include Local climate change. Scientific data Section 118 of the Internal Rev- Congress. The NHA request and their Habitat Government Entities has highlighted the extent of enue Code (IRC), to enhance begins at the local level and is throughout our within CWA Section social stratification by race and public and private sector in- presented by a member of the Nation’s Counties 404 Permitting class, leading to social and en- vestments in growing and revi- State’s Congressional delega- ISSUE: Farmers depend on Exclusions vironmental injustice dispro- talizing county economies. tion for authorization by Con- pollinator species such as bees, ISSUE: The Clean Water Act portionately impacting people gress. The authorization assists butterflies, moths, hoverflies, (CWA) provides an exemption of color, indigenous people, Make State and Local counties and provides funding flower beetles, pollen wasps, from permitting under Section and those living in poverty. Governments Eligible stability to improve the local some birds, and some bats to 404 for normal ongoing silvi- Understanding the distribu- to Receive Payroll Tax economy, quality of life, and successfully produce approx- cultural activities and opera- tion and nuances underpin- Credits Authorized tax base through locally con- imately one-third of all Unit- tions, provided that they follow ning these inequities is vital Under the Families trolled public-private partner- ed States agricultural output. the recommendations pro- to addressing them. A Nation- First Coronavirus ships which foster investment Pollinators play a crucial role vided by the respective State al Equity Map would enable Response Act in historic preservation and in the production of fibers, ed- Department of Environmental Counties to assess whether and ISSUE: Under current law, natural resource conservation. ible oils, medicines, and other Quality. to what extent underserved state and local governments Thirty of these NHAs need re- products. Given the breadth, PROPOSED POLICY: NACo urg- communities face systemic are not eligible to receive the authorization in 2021, with severity, and persistence of es Congress and the U.S. Envi- barriers in accessing benefits emergency paid leave payroll most others facing the same alarming pollinator losses, it ronmental Protection Agency and opportunities from County tax credit established under policies and programs. the Families First Coronavirus PROPOSED POLICY: NACo sup- Response Act (FFCRA). ports the following federal ef- PROPOSED POLICY: NACo urg- forts to develop a national equi- es Congress to immediately ty map to provide accurate data pass a legislative fix in future and geographic information COVID-19 response proposals at a scale and resolution that that would extend the emer- helps ensure evidence-based gency leave payroll tax credit policy decisions on social and to state and local governments. environmental equity at a local level: HEALTH Executive Order 14008, Sec- tion 222(a), which requires Prioritize Racial the Chair of the Council on Health Equity in a Na- Environmental Quality, with- tional COVID-19 Vacci- in 6 months of the date of this nation Program order, to create a geospatial Climate and Economic Justice ISSUE: The COVID-19 pan- Screening Tool and annually demic has disproportion- publish interactive maps high- ately impacted minority and lighting disadvantaged com- low-income communities, munities. And and emerging research indi- S. 101- 117th Congress cates the share of vaccinations (2021-2022): A bill to estab- among those communities is lish the Environmental Justice smaller than their share of cas- Mapping Committee and for es, hospitalizations and deaths. other purposes. PROPOSED POLICY: NACo urg- es the federal government to FINANCE, PEN- prioritize racial health equi-

SIONS AND INTER- See RESOLUTIONS page 11 COUNTY NEWS NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES MARCH 22, 2021 11 Funding needed for mental health programs, veterans

From RESOLUTIONS page 10 ty as a central component of a national COVID-19 vaccine program. NACo further urges Congress to enact additional emergency supplemental ap- propriations to fund coordi- nation among federal, state, county, local and tribal govern- ment to ensure Black, LatinX, Native, immigrant and other communities of color have equitable access to vaccines; address the legitimate con- cerns of communities of color who have low confidence in the government and scientific community due to consistent- ly poor health outcomes as well as historical and system- atic mistreatment; strengthen local and community-based public health infrastructure; encourage comprehensive, re- search-based communications campaigns to address misin- formation in minority commu- treating veterans through the prevention strategies to limit with Behavioral follow-up. In addition to sup- nities regarding the vaccines; VA’s Whole Health initiative, community violence. Health Conditions port for the community-level and expand, train and sustain and further, building upon FY or Developmental interventions above, we urge a community-based workforce 2020 language and appropria- Support Mental Disabilities the federal government to sup- to aid in vaccine distribution. tions, supports the expansion Health Funding and ISSUE: Without adequately port the development and con- of DOD and VA programs to Programs resourced crisis response sys- tinuation of virtual platforms Fund Creative Arts provide clinical services and ISSUE: Robust funding for tems in place, counties rely for crisis response teams. Therapies for Treating other care to service members mental health programs is heavily on law enforcement Veterans and veterans in all counties, needed now more than ever as staff and institutionalization, Address Toxic ISSUE: The U.S. House de- parishes and boroughs. the COVID-19 pandemic has especially through jails and Exposure for Veterans fense appropriations bill in- had a negative impact on many prisons, with the result being ISSUE: Approximately 3.5 cludes language to support Address the Impact Americans’ mental health and cost burden to public systems million veterans have been ex- increased support for creative of COVID-19 on well-being since its onset. and poor outcomes for people posed to burn pits that spewed arts therapies for treating U.S. Community Violence PROPOSED POLICY: NACo urg- in crisis. toxic fumes and carcinogens Department of Defense (DOD) ISSUE: Examining the ad- es Congress and the admin- PROPOSED POLICY: NACo sup- into the air, but most struggle service members with trau- verse impact the COVID-19 istration to prioritize mental ports federal policy that would to prove the direct service con- matic brain injuries and psy- pandemic has had on domestic health care that enhances assist counties through fund- nection necessary to be eligi- chological health conditions. violence. counties’ ability to provide lo- ing and technical assistance, in ble for VA benefits to cover the The U.S. Department of Veter- PROPOSED POLICY: NACo cal systems of care by: (1) in- addressing behavioral health associated diseases. The result ans Affairs (VA) appropriations urges Congress to direct the creasing federal funding for crises by implementing the fol- is a delay in critical medical bill also has language to sup- Centers for Disease Control mental health programs un- lowing: 1) crisis first respond- care and other supports for port creative arts therapies for and Prevention (CDC), in con- der the Department of Health ers with specialized skills and former servicemembers, an military veterans and includes junction with the U.S. Depart- and Human Service’s (HHS’s) training, including social work- increase in the workload of re- $5 million for creative arts ment of Health and Human Substance Abuse and Mental ers and mental health profes- source-strapped County Veter- therapies in treating veterans Services (HHS) and the U.S. Health Services Administra- sionals, who can alert law en- an Service Officers tasked with through the VA’s Whole Health Department of Justice (DOJ), tion and the Department of forcement as needed (e.g., the connecting veterans to federal initiative. to provide a comprehensive Veterans Affairs (VA) and (2) CAHOOTS model); 2) Crisis In- benefits, and the potential to PROPOSED POLICY: NACo joint study to Congressional supporting a set-aside mental tervention Team (CIT) training shift the responsibility of pro- urges the federal government Committees of jurisdiction on health fund for state, county, required for law enforcement; viding healthcare and other to fund creative arts therapies the effects of the COVID-19 and other local governments in 3) 24-hour walk-in crisis cen- services to county systems. for treating service members pandemic on community vio- addition to regularly appropri- ters, accessible to all wheth- PROPOSED POLICY: NACo urg- and veterans with traumatic lence including the collection ated funding for the aforemen- er brought by a peer, family es Congress to pass legislation brain injuries and psycholog- and analysis of gun sales as tioned mental health programs member, police officer or on ensuring veterans who served ical health conditions within well as intimate partner and to specifically address the their own, where a person in near burn pits receive VA the U.S. Department of De- domestic violence data. NACo effects of the COVID-19 pan- crisis or pre-crisis can obtain health coverage and disability fense (DOD) appropriations also reaffirms its call to Con- demic on mental health and the resources they need to alle- benefits for associated medical bill and the U.S. Department of gress for continued funding to substance abuse within their viate or avert the crisis; and 4) conditions by eliminating or Veterans Affairs (VA) appropri- collect community violence jurisdictions. trained and certified peer sup- easing the direct service con- ation bill. NACo supports the data, research to better under- porters and peer mentors to nection requirement and in- first-time funding of $5 million stand the causes of community Crisis Response respond at the scene of crisis, for creative arts therapies in violence, and development of Methods for People in crisis centers, and as part of See RESOLUTIONS page 12 12 MARCH 22, 2021 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES COUNTY NEWS Expand the arts, support nutrition programs

From RESOLUTIONS page 11 Nutrition Assistance quately meet the needs of chil- change of Administration, Fund the Juvenile Program dren experiencing food insecu- FEMA released new rules for Justice Delinquency vesting in additional research. ISSUE: Serving as the foun- rity, which negatively impacts public comment that if ad- Prevention Incentive dation for calculating Supple- their learning, physical health opted, significantly change Grants at the Office HUMAN SERVICES mental Nutrition Assistance and overall wellbeing. the threshold calculation of of Juvenile Justice Program (SNAP) benefits, the PROPOSED POLICY: NACo urg- eligibility for a Presidential and Delinquency AND EDUCATION Thrifty Food Plan (TFP) is used es Congress to pass legislation declaration of disaster and for Prevention Provide the Resources by the U.S. Department of Agri- that would guarantee all chil- Public Assistance grant pro- ISSUE: Both the U.S. House Necessary for Devel- culture (USDA) to portray what dren have access to breakfast, gram funding. This shifts the and Senate bills include lan- oping and Expanding a “minimal cost,” nutritionally lunch and snacks at school, in financial burden of disaster re- guage calling on the Depart- Arts and Cultural Pro- adequate food plan entails for child care and during the sum- covery and directly impact the ment of Justice, Office of -Ju gramming in Counties different households, reflect- mer months at no cost. Con- financial risks to local govern- venile Justice & Delinquency ISSUE: The National Endow- ing age and gender. It is based gress must ensure that Local ment and were made without Prevention (JJDP) to include ment for the Arts (NEA) is the on assumptions about dietary Educational Agencies (LEAs) input from local subject matter arts-based juvenile justice pro- only arts funder in America, needs, actual consumption and participating childcare experts. grams among its strategies. public or private, that supports patterns, and food prices. providers receive adequate PROPOSED POLICY: NACo op- PROPOSED POLICY: NACo urg- the arts in 50 states, the Dis- While benefits are tied to infla- funding and reimbursement poses drastic, sudden or dra- es Congress to provide $61.5 trict of Columbia, and U.S. ter- tion adjustments, the underly- to implement this program matic changes to the disaster million funding to the Depart- ritories. Most counties across ing TFP has not been revised and meet rigorous nutrition Public Assistance qualification ment of Justice Office of Juve- the country benefit from an since 2006. standards, to remove admin- rules until the COVID-19 cri- nile Justice & Delinquency Pre- NEA grant. The Challenge PROPOSED POLICY: NACo sup- istrative and resource barriers sis and recovery are complet- vention (JJDP) for the purposes America funding category spe- ports a thorough review and that block children in access- ed. NACo urges the President of including arts-based juve- cifically offers support for proj- updates to the U.S. Department ing the nutrition they need to to require the Federal Emer- nile justice programs among ects that extend the reach of of Agriculture’s (USDA) Thrifty thrive. We encourage Congress gency Management Agency its strategies and expanding the arts to populations whose Food Plan (TFP) to account for to additionally promote part- (FEMA) to involve local and existing programming for jus- opportunities to experience the cost of food more accurate- nerships with local agricultur- state Emergency Management tice-involved youth in all coun- the arts are limited by geogra- ly, dietary needs, purchasing al producers to incorporate subject matter experts in the ties, parishes and boroughs. phy, economics, or disability. patterns and regional differ- healthy ingredients into school development of future nec- The Consolidated Appropria- ences in food costs, housing meals. essary changes to the Public Direct the U.S. tions Act of FY 2021 provided and medical care, which affect Assistance eligibility calcula- Department of Justice a $5.25 million increase to the the purchasing power of Sup- tions. This involvement must to Provide Increased National Endowment for the JUSTICE AND plemental Nutrition Assistance be during the formation of the Funding to Local Law Arts for national grant making Program (SNAP) benefits. PUBLIC SAFETY proposed policy rule change if Enforcement for the as well as waiver language that Oppose Proposed the change requires local and Procurement of Body allows FY 2019 and FY 2020 Guarantee Access to Changes in the Public state government to signifi- Cameras grants to be used for general Federal Child Nutrition Assistance Program cantly change their operating ISSUE: In light of recent and operating support, as request- Programs Until the COVID-19 methods or fiscal responsibili- historic events, increased ed by arts advocates. ISSUE: Current federal child Crisis is Resolved ties in disasters. transparency into the oper- PROPOSED POLICY: NACo nutrition programs do not ade- ISSUE: Just prior to the ations of police officers and urges the federal government departments has become nec- to continue to provide the essary for the safety of both the resources necessary for devel- alleged offender and officer. oping and expanding arts and Especially in heavily policed cultural programming in coun- communities, body cameras ties, parishes and boroughs can increase the accountabil- throughout the U.S. NACo ity of police officers, as well as supports funding in Fiscal Year protect officers from false al- 2022 at $167.5 million or above legations. While the majority for the National Endowment of law enforcement agree that for the Arts (NEA) to ensure body cameras are a helpful tool that counties can continue to that can be used to promote access these important federal equity, procuring this equip- funds. Counties also propose ment can be a challenge due to maintained or increased local funding constraints. funding for the National En- PROPOSED POLICY: NACo dowment for the Humanities supports increased funding (NEH), Institute of Museum through the U.S. Department of and Library Services (IMLS), Justice, Bureau of Justice Assis- Corporation for Public Broad- tance to local law enforcement casting and Arts Education for the procurements of body grant program within the U.S. cameras. Department of Education. PUBLIC LANDS Update the Thrifty Food Plan Used to County Approval Calculate Benefits in Land and Water for the Supplemental See RESOLUTIONS page 13 COUNTY NEWS NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES MARCH 22, 2021 13

BULLETIN From RESOLUTIONS page 12 TRANSPORTATION Direct the U.S. Conservation Fund Department of Implementation Transportation $1.9 Trillion AMERICAN ISSUE: The Land and Water to Reinstate the Conservation Fund (LWCF) Local Labor Hiring RESCUE PLAN allows federal agencies to ac- Preference Pilot quire private land and water, Program Important information for three+one clients regarding the latest round or an interest in private land ISSUE: Since 1986, the fed- and water, to be made public eral regulation in 2 CFR part of federal aid from three+one’s Director of Public Partnerships, without input or approval from 200.319(c) has prevented recipi- Bill Cherry: local government. ents of federal grant money from PROPOSED POLICY: NACo including provisions that require The latest federal aid pack- allowable expenditures. supports a policy requiring the or incentivize contractors to hire age includes $65.1 billion written approval of the local a portion of workers from com- going directly to counties, A SPECIFIC EXAMPLE OF A jurisdictional county or coun- munities around a given infra- and another $65.1 billion PROHIBITED USE: ty government-equivalent for structure project. At the time, earmarked for cities, towns ● NO PENSION EXPENS- the federal acquisition of land, the rationale for prohibiting lo- and villages. Also included is funds can be used to of- ES: The funds cannot be used water, or an interest in land or cal hire incentives was that such $130 billion for K-12 schools, fer “Premium Pay” to public to pay for public or private water under the federal LWCF provisions could reduce the $40 billion for colleges and employees who have been employee pension-fund con- program and will work to en- number of bidders on projects, public universities, and $30 designated as “Essential tributions or costs. sure that the U.S. Department resulting in an inefficient use of billion for public transit. Workers.” These funds can There may be other prohib- of the Interior, U.S. Department taxpayer dollars. However, no Provided below is our initial also be transferred to the pri- ited uses of American Rescue of Agriculture and other feder- empirical evidence was ever cit- interpretation for three+one vate sector through grants in Plan funds. Rest assured, we al agencies will seek written ed to back up this assertion and clients of the allowable uses order for businesses to offer will constantly monitor the approval from jurisdictional Congress itself has never prohib- of the funds. We will contin- Premium Pay to their essen- U.S. Treasury website in or- county governments prior to ited local hire. ue to rely on our partners at tial workers. There will be a der to provide our three+one acquiring private lands. PROPOSED POLICY: NACo the National Association of cap of no more than a $13 per clients with the most recent urges the U.S. Department of Counties (NACo), and the hour bonus per employee, information. TELECOMMU- Transportation to reinstate the guidelines soon to be issued with a limit of no more than We are expecting our val- Local Labor Hiring Preference by the U.S. Treasury Depart- $25,000 going to any single ued municipal and pub- NICATIONS AND Pilot Program that will enable ment and the U.S. Depart- individual. lic-entity clients to see an TECHNOLOGY counties to evaluate the im- ment of Education for more inflow of about $1 billion in Ensure the pacts of utilizing certain local detailed information as it be- ● LOSS OF REVENUES: cash within the next 60 days. Participation of contracting requirements on comes available. The funds can be used to And about 12 months from County Officials in the competitive bidding pro- offset the loss of revenues now, we expect to see a sec- the Development and cess. ALLOWABLE USES OF brought about by the pan- ond $1 billion infusion going Implementation of FUNDS: demic. For example, if a mu- to these same clients. That Broadband Expansion Support Local ● COVID EXPENSES: Mu- nicipality’s sales-tax receipts is an enormous amount of Efforts Preference Programs nicipalities and public en- were lower in 2020 than they liquidity that must be man- ISSUE: County officials are on Federally Funded tities will be allowed to use were in 2019, funds from the aged with the same due dili- uniquely positioned to advise Transportation the funds to cover any pub- American Rescue Plan could gence and fiduciary oversight and help facilitate digital con- & Infrastructure lic-health expenses related be used to fill in that revenue that our clients have already nectivity for urban, rural, and Projects to COVID-19, or to pay for gap. The U.S. Treasury may been using to manage their tribal jurisdictions for which ISSUE: Federal restrictions any mitigation efforts relat- also require data that shows other public funds. long-standing connectivity on Local Preference Programs ed to stopping or slowing the a reduction in government We have expanded our inequities have been made prohibit counties from includ- spread of the pandemic. services related to the cor- three+one team and add- more acute by the COVID-19 ing race- and gender-neutral responding dip in revenues, ed new technologies in or- pandemic. The expansion of geographic preferences in so- ● COMMUNITY ASSIS- but that is not completely der to be fully prepared to broadband internet will re- licitation packages when any TANCE: The funds can be clear at this point. seamlessly assist our clients quire resources from all levels federal funding is involved. used to offset the negative with this once-in-a-lifetime of government but foremost PROPOSED POLICY: NACo sup- impacts to the community ● INFRASTRUCTURE: The funding opportunity. Keep will require the integration of ports the use of Local Prefer- and its businesses brought funds can be used for infra- in mind that by maximizing local government in establish- ence Programs to encourage about by the health crisis. structure projects such as the interest income of these ing the programmatic com- the procurement of services This could include grants to broadband expansion or im- funds while they are in your ponents that will successfully from local businesses compet- small businesses and not-for- provements, water and sewer custody, your municipality implement connectivity for all ing for suitable contracting op- profit organizations, rental system improvements, and and your community can get communities. portunities. NACo urges Con- and homeowner assistance, other similar infrastructure an even bigger “bang for the PROPOSED POLICY: NACo urg- gress to waive the prohibition help for tourism and a wide projects that are not nec- buck.” It is also important to es Congress and involved fed- against local preferences in range of similar recovery pro- essarily directly related to remember that three+one’s eral agencies to commit to the federal grant programs funded grams. COVID-19. Additional guid- services are considered to inclusion and engagement of as part of COVID-19-related ance from the U.S. Treasury, be an allowable expense county officials in the earliest transportation and infrastruc- ● PREMIUM PAY FOR ES- when it is issued, is expected under the latest U.S. Treasury phases of the strategic plan- ture bills, where counties bring SENTIAL WORKERS: The to further clarify these types of guidelines. ning and expansion of broad- at least a 25 percent local match band services and access. to the federally funded project. 14 MARCH 22, 2021 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES COUNTY NEWS ‘I don’t think this kind of funding comes along very often, not even every few generations’ From RESCUE PLAN page 2 eral-state-local partnership, A sample of county and with it, an investment in the bill’s implementation and AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN allocations counties on the front lines and one year after their first dis- a commitment to defeating this bursement. All must be spent COUNTY EST. ALLOCATION 2019 POPULATION pandemic and its resulting eco- before Dec. 31, 2024. Westchester County, N.Y...... $187.6 million...... 967,506 nomic devastation. “I don’t think this kind of “While counties face record funding comes along very often, Denton County, Texas...... $172 million...... 887,207 demand for essential services, not even every few generations,” Hamilton County, Ohio...... $158.5 million...... 817,473 we have shed jobs at rates far Haywood County, N.C. Manag- outpacing the rest of the econ- Jefferson Parish, La...... $83.9 million...... 432,493 er Bryant Morehead told the omy,” he said. “Even as the na- Smoky Mountain News. “I’ve Clearfield County, Pa...... $15.4 million...... 79,255 tion’s economy inches toward been in government 20 years recovery, one in every 10 jobs Laurel County, Ky...... $11.8 million...... 60,813 and don’t ever remember get- yet to be recovered is from our ting $12 million from the fed- Sweetwater County, Wyo...... $8.2 million...... 42,343 local governments.” eral government. We owe it to “The American Rescue Plan Hancock County, W.Va...... $5.6 million...... 28,810 taxpayers to spend this money advances us on the road to re- wisely.” Jones County, Iowa...... $4 million...... 20,681 covery, honors our frontline he- Well before the money arrives Liberty County, Fla...... $1.6 million...... 8,345 roes and equips us to help end in counties’ coffers, they are for- the pandemic and drive eco- mulating plans about where it Source: NACo Counties Futures Lab, from U.S. House of Representatives and Congressional Research Service nomic recovery,” Chase said. will go. Indiana County, Pa., due “With the critical aid in this to receive $16.3 million, is eying their needs and strategizing the gathering what our municipali- “The legislation recognizes bill, we will now be able to broadband expansion. Freder- optimal use for the funding. ties will be receiving as we want counties’ vast responsibilities strengthen our communities ick County, Md. ($50.3 million) “At this point we have more to ensure efforts are not dupli- to care for our most vulnera- by investing in small businesses is planning to bolster services questions than answers,” said cated.” ble residents – our sick, unem- and nonprofits, vaccine distri- for mental health, addiction Carol Muller, administrative of- NACo Executive Director ployed, elderly and youth,” he bution, public health and safe- and health disparities. Vander- ficer for the Minnehaha County, Matt Chase applauded the said. “For too long, the pressing ty, human services, especially burgh County, Ind. is forming a S.D. Commission. “The coun- House and Senate for passing challenges and needs facing our for those suffering from domes- “Road to Recovery” committee ty wants to ensure that dollars the State and Local Coronavi- counties have outstripped our tic violence, mental illnesses to determine how to spend its expended will meet guidelines rus Fiscal Recovery Funds and depleted local resources.” and substance use disorders $35.2 million. and the highest priorities that thanked President Biden for Chase noted that the bill’s and much-needed infrastruc- Counties are still assessing exist. As an example, we are signing the bill into law. passage affirmed a strong fed- ture, including broadband.”

DETAILS COMING SOON!

IN-PERSON 2021 JULY AND NACo ANNUAL 9 -12 VIRTUAL PRINCE GEORGE’S CONFERENCE COUNTY, MD. COUNTY NEWS NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES MARCH 22, 2021 15 NetSmart NACo NACo-NATIONWIDE SCHOLARSHIP 2021 SOLUTIONS SPOTLIGHT APPLICATIONS OPEN SOON Technology platform will maximize effectiveness of Bernalillo County ‘Soft landing spot’ offers reconnection to community

The rate of serious mental ill- only will it be valuable for the ness in jails is three to six times transition planners and case Are you the parent, grand- higher compared to the general managers, it will also give the parent or legal guardian of a population, according to a re- individuals being served a high school senior? If you have port from the Council of State much better experience and an active account funded by Governments Justice Center. minimize the need to retell employee dollars to a 457(b) When persons with a mental their story,” said Julie Hiett, Plan offered through the NACo idents are eligible to apply. illness or a substance use dis- Netsmart senior director of Deferred Compensation Pro- Please keep the following crite- order are released from de- Population Health Manage- gram, your student is eligible ria in mind: tention, they are often reincar- ment. to apply for one of four $2,500 ● The applicant’s parent, cerated at a later time, in part Using a single platform will college scholarships. Scholar- grandparent or legal guardian because they do not receive the Bernalillo County, N.M. also eliminate data siloes and ships will be awarded in the fall must be enrolled in and have necessary behavioral health empower a more holistic and of 2021. a current employee funded care and other life-changing “whole-person” view within In its 18th year of existence, 457(b) Plan offered through the services that could help pre- Technology and data-shar- the system. This view is more the NACo/Nationwide schol- NACo Deferred Compensation vent their re-entry into the jus- ing are critical at the Resource than a convenience for Ber- arship essay contest is an ed- Program. tice system. Re-Entry Center, allowing staff nalillo case managers; it will ucational opportunity for high ● Applicants must enroll in a Bernalillo County, N.M. to coordinate care, make in- also ensure data does not get school students transitioning full-time undergraduate course experienced these trends formed decisions at the point missed and will help reduce into a new stage of their lives. of study no later than the au- and moved proactively and of care and seamlessly facil- treatment redundancies. Engaging young people in civ- tumn term of the 2021-2022 intentionally to successful- itate referrals to community The platform will allow Ber- ic life and responsibilities is a school year or at an accredit- ly transition justice-involved partners. Initially, staff was us- nalillo County case managers great way to show high school ed trade school or two-year or individuals back into their ing a separate electronic record to see a variety of data, assess- students the valuable roles that four-year college. communities. Through its Be- for mental health services and ments and care plans from the counties play in the lives of their ● Immediate family members havioral Health Initiative, the tracking information on Excel time a person is booked into residents. The 2021 scholarship of NACo employees, members county developed a variety of spreadsheets. the jail all the way through program’s goal is to help ensure of the NACo Defined Contri- programs tailored to address Recognizing the efficien- their arrival at the Resource that young people get involved bution and Retirement Advi- not only mental health, but cies and integration capabil- Re-Entry Center. They also plan and stay involved in local gov- sory Committee or its govern- also physical health and so- ities of a single, consolidated to integrate the platform with ernment — and understand the ing board of directors, staff of cial determinants of health technology platform for the both Bernalillo County jail IT importance of being good stew- individual state Association of (SDoH). Resource Re-Entry Center, the systems, improving efficiencies ards of their future finances. Counties that are members of One of Bernalillo County’s Bernalillo County Department and client experience. To help students consider the the LLC and Nationwide em- most notable initiatives is its of Behavioral Health Services A total of 12,468 persons met importance of saving early and ployees are not eligible to apply; Resource Re-Entry Center, an is partnering with Netsmart to with Resource Re-Entry Center consistently, students are asked this program is not offered out- award-winning program built implement their CareManager case managers in 2020 after to write an essay that answers side the United States. to reduce recidivism and con- platform. being released from incarcer- the following question: ● The application can be sub- nect individuals with behav- ation. Referrals (including fol- The pandemic has changed mitted online starting April 1 at ioral health needs to resources Making a difference low-up) are made to a variety the way we interact and engage nrsforu.com/scholarship. The upon release from jail. Nearly Transition planning begins of community-based providers with each other on a daily basis. deadline is May 31, 2021. 50 people enter the center dai- at booking, starting with as- for behavioral health services, As it relates to our counties and ly as their first stop after being sessment and other pertinent housing, transportation, edu- jurisdictions in America, it has 41 years of released from the county’s de- information being sent elec- cation and training, medical accelerated planned initiatives partnership — and still tention center. tronically to the platform. The care and more. to explore various mediums going strong “Our Resource Re-Entry CareManager platform will With comprehensive data of access to reach current and The NACo-Nationwide Center is that soft landing consolidate all authorized in- that will be available at their future customers. Due to this Scholarship is one of the many spot for folks to get connect- formation about persons tran- fingertips from the Netsmart new reality, what are three cre- benefits available as a result ed to services,” said Margarita sitioning through the Resource CareManager platform, coun- ative and strategic ways that you of four decades of partnership Chavez-Sanchez, M.S., Direc- Re-Entry Center into a single ty case managers will be able would recommend in preparing between Nationwide and the tor, Bernalillo County Depart- view, with the ability to drill to spend quality time with and securing financial wellness National Association of Coun- ment of Behavioral Health down to more details. those they meet with and make in this new digital world? Please ties (NACo) and its member Services. “Case managers and “This will enable transition informed referral decisions incorporate technology options counties. For additional infor- transition planners are avail- planners to review information based on a person’s unique cir- as well as forms of education mation about the NACo De- able to connect individuals to prior to meeting with persons cumstances. and access into your response. ferred Compensation Program, long-term supportive services.” transitioning through the Re- The ultimate goal: Provide the please contact David Belnick source Re-Entry Center, creat- support needed to help persons Eligibility at [email protected] or Single technology ing a seamless transition from stabilize, stay healthy, regain requirements 410-790-5440, or contact your platform for informed jail to the re-entry center and self-sufficiency and break the Graduating high school se- Nationwide representative at decisions then into the community. Not cycle of recidivism. niors who are legal U.S. res- 1-877-677-3678. 16 MARCH 22, 2021 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES COUNTY NEWS NACo Annual Meeting set in the DC metro area GET TO Cameron County, Pa. KNOW From BOARD page 1 The location is also suitable for ... bringing any federal officials to counties was coming soon to the conference to discuss Welcome, Cameron County, Pa. and thanked counties for their federal COVID aid implemen- Cameron County is located in work championing the bill. tation and rulemaking. north-central Pennsylvania. The “We want to hear from you NACo will offer a hybrid ex- county is the smallest in the state by all, what are important things perience for both in-person population and is one of the smallest for the Treasury Department and virtual participation, in- counties in the state by land area. It to keep in mind as we think cluding for the Annual Busi- was founded in 1860. about flexibilities around state ness Meeting and second vice During World War II, the proximity and local funding,” she said. president election. fuse was invented in the county, “What are the kinds of issues NACo will comply with any which allowed bombs to explode at state or county public health predetermined levels instead of on measures. impact. The county also played a key “WE ARE PROUD NACo will reimagine the role in producing dynamite used in TO WELCOME AND conference agenda and for- constructing the Panama Canal. mat to reduce the overall The county seat of Emporium was HOST THE NATIONAL number of sessions and to home to the Incandescent Lamp maximize the use of the con- Company that later became known as ASSOCIATION vention space for social dis- Sylvania Electronics. tancing, COVID screening/ OF COUNTIES TO Presently, Cameron County is the testing and live streaming. A heart of the powdered metal industry safe experience for members PRINCE GEORGE’S and is known for its natural beauty to the maximum extent possi- that attracts hunters, fishermen and COUNTY, MD.” ble will be ensured by includ- nature enthusiasts. — LESLIE W. GRAVES ing experienced conference organizers in the execution of Film Actor Tom Mix, who starred in the event. many Western movies, was born in you are facing and the kinds The Annual Conference was Cameron County. of critical needs that you have originally scheduled to take The flagstone surrounding that should be informing the place in Travis County (Aus- the tomb of the Unknowns at next steps of our implementa- tin), Texas, which will now Arlington National cemetery was tion?” play host to the 2023 confer- quarried from the county. Though county officials ence. Chatham County (Sa- were not able to make the trip vannah) Ga. will play host to “Get to Know” features new NACo to Washington, D.C. for the the 2027 conference. member counties. Legislative Conference, they’ll be roughly a mile away during the Annual Conference. “We are proud to welcome and host the National Asso- ciation of Counties to Prince WORD CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga. George’s County, Md.,” said SEARCH Created by: Mary Ann Barton Leslie W. Graves, president and CEO of Experience Prince George’s. Z J V V X S F T F C A M U N S J Y F T I AIRPORT: The county is home to the PARADE: One of the largest St. “It is a pivotal time to come T R O P R I A S F I I A M O E C P Z Y G Savannah-Hilton Head International Patrick’s Day parades is held in the together through leadership, H J H C U I S I N E L T E I Z A O Q F G Airport. county each year. empowerment and great pur- P A D E L Z Q T M M X M N T R H X U A Y ATLANTIC: The county is located on PARISH: The county was formed in the Atlantic coast. 1777, from Christ Church Parish and pose. Throughout your visit, N L Z U L H P P J O T D S A H I L L T B BAPTIST: The First African Baptist St. Philip Parish. we encourage you to expe- F S A V A N N A H R H K D L L S N P Z S Church served as a stop on the Under- PITT: The county was named for Wil- rience and enjoy the many H S I R A P V B O A Q E P U K T N R U Z ground Railroad. liam Pitt the Elder, earl of Chatham. unique amenities of our des- D M E C C Z J P V M H F X P A O A E O C BRITISH: The county was occupied by POPULATION: The county is home to tination.” Q W J L B B U B R S L G T O O R M P W I the British in 1778 during the Ameri- nearly 300,000 people. Interest in an in-person M T J T J D V S X E O H L P U I F L R P can Revolution. PORT: The Savannah River ports of conference began to grow as K Q X P J A T G H O S I F V J C O N I Z CUISINE: Some of the most well- Savannah and Garden City operated the country gets on track to Y U S O B Y U X U I T S Y U E F M D T O known culinary items on restaurant by the Georgia Ports Authority and menus include fried green tomatoes Port Wentworth services ships from vaccinate all adults by the end X L T V H W K J T Y J T B Q M P Y F T P and shrimp and grits. around the world. of May. The close proximity of C T R T E P B I A V T I I M T P O X G C FILMS: “Ford v Ferrari,” “Forrest SAVANNAH: The county seat. Prince George’s County to NA- N D E T A A R W Y D Z I A P N Z A Y K Z Gump” and other films and TV shows SCOUTS: Juliette Gordon Low estab- Co’s office in Washington, D.C. G A E P Q B Q T Y N Y X Q J F B L Z H X have been made in the county. lished the country’s first Girl Scout also played a role in the deci- F L S I N O H G Q N Y K S Y I I W L C V HISTORIC: The county seat, Savan- troop in the county in 1912. sion, as it is easier to plan and Q R V E T J T U T I C A T Q A K J I L V nah, is one of the largest National TREES: The county is known for its live execute the conference with- E L F T A K Y L W W D O Z C U P O W Z A Historic Landmark Districts in the oaks. country. out air travel in a short prepa- G E X H N W A N F J B J M S F F U L U Y ration time of three months. COUNTY NEWS NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES MARCH 22, 2021 17 perspective on life and how the day. hair band years. These days, I we should behave and treat think I’m chilling back to Kenny My favorite meal is: It has others. Ali would be able to talk Chesney, the Zac Brown Band PROFILES IN to come with the scenery, but about the struggles of racial and a few more depending on an amazing cheeseburger with inequity and how standing up the day. BEHIND some crinkle fries at the end of SERVICE for something, no matter how THE a hot summer day when the sun My favorite U.S. president: difficult, can change the world. is going down and Jimmy Buffett Teddy Roosevelt. No doubt. SEAL Teddy Roosevelt was the leader SEAL GREG PUCKETT is playing on the radio just can’t He was such a leader and truly that we should aspire to be — NACo Board Member be beat. cared for the people. He would committed to wanting more for promote economic growth and County Commissioner My pet peeve is: People not others and leaving a legacy for still understand the value of OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. Mercer County, W.Va. caring about their community. the world to follow. Tom Hanks protections of the environment. That’s very broad, but more spe- he Osceola County would be my favorite. I think his He was stubborn, but he worked cifically is mistreating their com- seal evolved as a result perspective on how to use the across the aisle and governed by munity by tossing out garbage of the county’s 1987 power of storytelling and the unity. I have always admired his T or not keeping their property in Centennial Celebration. Local ability to connect with others on tenaciousness. so many levels through his work good order. artist Barni McIntire designed My county is a NACo beyond the silver screen would My motto is: You can’t be the seal. McIntire used her member because: The value be life-changing. yourself, when others tell you own stylized “old timey” let- of what we learn from others is tering around its border and Tour the who you are. (I’ve had that since A dream I have is to: incomparable. Not only can we horizontal lines throughout country/world with good friends high school.) share what we do, but we can to give the design the feeling and good food. I want to enjoy The last book I read was: learn from our peers in a way of a wood carving. County the culture of others and be able One Life, One Legacy by Justin that creates comfort in knowing commissioners later modified to pass along some of the things Spencer that others have ventured there the seal to be used as the I’ve learned to other communi- My favorite movie is: There before us. Don’t get me wrong, everyday logo for vehicles, ties. Secretly, I want to drive the are so many that I would like to I like being innovative where we buildings and letterheads. Oscar Mayer Wienermobile for a say that are my favorite. I still can, but it’s easier to move for- year— so now that may not be a gravitate back to Parenthood ward faster, knowing that we can secret. Puckett with Steve Martin. That movie do something when it’s already Number of years active in You’d be surprised to learn: had just about everything and re- been tried and tested elsewhere. NACo: Six I have acted in some movies, lated back to the confusion, joy, Being a member also helps played professional basketball pain and comfort that is family. bring accountability and trust in Years in public service: Six (at a minor level) and have visit- other levels. It’s being part of a My favorite music is: There is Occupation: County com- ed 46 states. movement and having a voice of no comparison to Jimmy Buffett missioner and also executive unity and being part of com- The most adventurous and the way it makes me feel. director of a non-profit organi- mittees. It is not partisan. It’s thing I’ve ever done: Traveled Of course, I also grew up on 45 zation tasked with combating about working together to show extensively across the country records from the ‘60s and ‘70s, community-based issues around that local government, if given many times. I don’t think I can so the Beach Boys, Beatles, Sam substance use disorders, pover- the authority, the fiscal means narrow it down to one thing. It’s Cooke, Frankie Valli and The Four ty, access to services and quality and the intestinal fortitude can kind of a series of things that is Seasons, Queen and others had The oval-shaped seal features a of life. be the driving force that creates explained by my restlessness for a big influence on me. Being an paddle wheel boat to signify the change and, in today’s climate, Education: BA in Communica- wanting more all the time. ‘80s kid also let me enjoy the county’s first transportation. saves lives. tion Arts from Concord College My favorite way to relax (now university) and numerous is: Play basketball. It’s a little certifications and health impact tougher these days, but it’s still a Clouds, water and the sun strategy programs. My favorite joy among joys. Other than that, music is: depict the county’s beautiful The hardest thing I’ve ever it has to be travel. weather. done: While it may not be I’m most proud of: So many There is no the “hardest,” certainly being things. Of course, being a dad comparison to a county commissioner is the to two of the greatest kids is Jimmy Buffett most challenging. Although I’m the biggest blessing of all. The sun was later replaced by and the way it the Spaceship Earth sphere to uniquely familiar with advocacy My daughter, Lauren, will be and policy development, it’s makes me feel. symbolize Epcot, a theme park heading off to Eckerd College at Walt Disney World Resort. the negative rhetoric that has to play volleyball and study permeated the political spec- marine science in the fall. My trum that has created the most son, Joseph, is a freshman and difficulty. People are afraid to a competitive swimmer. From In the background of the seal, the county courthouse is move forward quickly and this there, I would say being swim surrounded by oak trees. causes a lot of second guess- coach has brought me a great ing and stagnation for fear of deal of joy, especially in recent making the wrong move. Now years. Not just for my own kids, the hardest thing? Knowing what but every one of the athletes that There are silhouettes of you want and still not finding a give me their time and effort. Cabbage palms and cowboys way to get there. Every morning I read: I give toward the front of the seal. Three people (living or a quick scroll through Facebook dead) I’d invite to dinner: and I read over the list of emails If you would like your county’s Muhammad Ali, President Teddy that have come through. I still seal featured in “Behind the Roosevelt and Tom Hanks. I like reading the paper and I Seal,” contact Rachel Looker think each would have a unique always check my calendar for at [email protected]. 18 MARCH 22, 2021 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES COUNTY NEWS

NEWS MISSOURI FROM ● The health department in ACROSS AUDRAIN COUNTY used a local airport to hold a mass vaccination event. Through a partnership with the Missouri National Guard, the City of Mex- THE NATION ico and the county, the health department aided in the mass vaccination site and distributed 2,500 available vaccines to in- dividuals over the age of 65 and adults with high-risk conditions. Cars lined the runway to receive a dose of the vaccine.

CALIFORNIA vehicles, the Ventura County energy projects. The state bill internet schedule COVID-19 disease outbreaks, according ● Supervisors in SAN DIEGO Star reported. The goal of the sets standards for installing vaccine appointments. Li- to The Times Herald. The sys- COUNTY launched the Mobile program is to keep motorists wind and solar infrastructure. brarians help library patrons tem alerts individuals who test Crisis Response Team to help safe and reduce congestion on Commissioners oppose the utilize computers and access positive for the virus and sends those experiencing mental freeways. legislation because it super- the county’s website where a link to an online survey to health or substance use crises. sedes local regulations and al- they can sign up for a registra- identify close contacts. The pilot program provides an lows projects to be completed tion list or create an account alternative to individuals who without county oversight, al- with local hospitals to schedule ● WAYNE COUNTY is using are experiencing behavioral lowing wind turbines and solar a vaccine appointment, WBAL- new technology to prevent the health crises and do not need panels to be placed without lo- TV reported. spread of COVID-19 in jails. law enforcement intervention. cal approval. More than half of The Integrated Viral Protec- Through the Mobile Crisis Re- Indiana’s counties passed simi- MICHIGAN tion unit uses technology to sponse Team, individuals may lar resolutions. ● The health department in disinfect the air. The county’s receive crisis intervention, tri- ST. CLAIR COUNTY launched William Dickerson Detention age and assessment services as MARYLAND a new software tool to noti- Facility is the first in the coun- well as be connected to addi- ● Libraries in ANNE ARUN- fy those who test positive for try to receive the device, which tional care. FLORIDA DEL COUNTY are helping COVID-19. The Patient Educa- has been used in schools, hos- BAY COUNTY and OKA- the elderly, individuals with tion Genius tool helps support pitals and entertainment ven- ● The Transportation Com- LOOSA COUNTY have formed disabilities and those without investigations and prioritize ues, CBS Detroit reported. mission in VENTURA COUN- a partnership to help the re- TY launched a free emergency gion’s artificial reef program. roadside assistance program Artificial reefs were deployed for vehicles disabled on certain last year off Bay County’s coast MARYLAND freeways throughout the coun- to grow the reef system. Oka- ● State officials in Maryland expanded ty. The Freeway Service Patrol loosa County is now helping a text-based outreach program to book Program includes assistance with the project to monitor vaccine appointments for PRINCE and free tows for broken-down the artificial reefs, collect data GEORGE’S COUNTY residents at the and keep the systems healthy, mass vaccination site at Six Flags Amer- WMBB reported. The collabo- ica. At least 500 appointments at the site ration helps improve the envi- have been set aside for county residents ronment along the coast. to ensure vaccine equity in addition to what residents can schedule online or INDIANA over the phone, WUSA reported. The ap- Commissioners in ALLEN pointment tool notifies residents three COUNTY approved a resolu- times over several days about receiving a tion opposing a state bill af- vaccine at the mass vaccination site and fecting zoning approval for has a response rate as high as 96 percent. commercial solar and wind COUNTY NEWS NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES MARCH 22, 2021 19

MINNESOTA Childcare providers in NEW JERSEY BECKER COUNTY affected Concerned for what it would mean for a nearby natural by COVID-19 are now eligi- area, the WARREN COUNTY Board of Commissioners passed ble for $1,000 relief grants a resolution opposing a plan to limit rockfalls along through the Emergency Relief I-80. The state Department of Transportation says a .4 mile Grant program. Certified child stretch of the interstate has the highest rockfall risk in the care centers and family child state, but strategies to prevent falling rock include blasting care providers are eligible for it away or anchoring it with mesh, and barriers and fencing the $1,000 emergency child can be put up to block debris from reaching the road, both assistance grant. The funds of which would destroy the natural beauty of the Delaware come from a state grant that Water Gap, WFMZ News reported. the county received to develop grant programs for businesses impacted by COVID-19. NEW YORK outlines who can do their jobs I-45. The lawsuit seeks to have quirements protecting public MISSOURI ● Inmates in the ONTAR- from home and how to access a court remand the project health, Eater reported. ● A new program in ST. IO COUNTY Jail are being resources to do so seamlessly, back to TxDOT to consider LOUIS COUNTY is bringing paired with shelter dogs in WENY News reported. the environmental impact VIRGINIA COVID-19 vaccines to res- a program called Jail and and add local community and LOUISA COUNTY is idents’ doors. The county is T.A.I.L.S. (Teaching Animals PENNSYLVANIA stakeholder input into the planning to provide fiber partnering with fire districts and Inmates Life Skills). Dogs CAMBRIA COUNTY has process. Houston Public Me- broadband access to every to distribute vaccines to those and their potential handlers are launched a county-wide noti- dia reported that the project household and business with- who are homebound and un- selected based on their tem- fication system. Cambria Alert has received opposition from in five years through a partner- able to go to a clinic or appoint- perament. The inmates teach and Response Engagement people worried about noise, air ship with Dominion Energy, ment. Officials are working the dogs obedience, social- System, or CARES, will alert pollution and displacement, as Rappahannock Electric Co- with referral agencies to ensure ization and behavior skills to residents to emergency situa- the project requires new rights- operative and a subsidiary of all those who are qualified can prepare them for finding a tions such as weather or nat- of-way that locals say could the Central Virginia Electric receive a vaccine in their home. new home, and in return, the ural disasters, and will be able force the relocation of homes Cooperative. The Central Vir- inmates gain new skills, which to target specific geographic and businesses along the cor- ginian reported that the effort NEVADA the Democrat and Chroni- areas when issuing alerts. ridor. The Federal Highway Ad- was funded through federal ● Sen. Catherine Cortez Mas- cle said could help with getting ministration has joined the ef- and state grants and county to (D) introduced a bill that a job in the animal care field or SOUTH CAROLINA fort, citing civil rights concerns government assistance. opens up a large stretch of the experience can provide a ANDERSON COUNTY is in its request that the state halt federal public land in CLARK positive reference for a job in forming its own ride-on de- the project. News from Across the Nation is COUNTY for commercial and an unrelated field. mand program, “Point-to- compiled by Charlie Ban and residential development. The Point Transportation.” The ● Texas Attorney Gen. Rachel Looker. Does your coun- bill would also conserve 2 ● While the lessons are county is trying to get non- Ken Paxton has sued TRA- ty have news we should know million acres of public land as fresh in their minds, the TIO- profits and people on board VIS COUNTY and the city of about? Contact [email protected] wilderness, including 1.3 GA COUNTY legislators to become contractors as Austin over local mask man- and [email protected]. million acres of the Desert passed a pandemic oper- drivers. County leaders are dates, in violation of Gov. Greg National Wildlife Refuge, ations plan to prepare for hoping to cover most costs with Abbott’s (R) statewide orders the Nevada Independent the potential that county grant funding. The project will lifting all coronavirus mea- WASHINGTON reported. The bill wasdevel - employees will have to work likely start with a pilot program sures. Although the statewide The KING COUN- oped in consultation with the remotely again because of a that provides transportation to orders claim to supersede “any TY Council passed county over several years. public health threat. The plan veterans, WSPA News report- conflicting order” on the local an ordinance giving ed. level, Austin and Travis County grocery store workers in officials argue that these con- unincorporated parts of TENNESSEE tinued mandates are legal, be- the county $4 per hour The General Assembly is cause, according to the Texas in hazard pay. The or- NEVADA advancing a bill that would Health and Safety dinance exempts inde- ● When WASH- take local health officials’ Code, there are pendently owned stores OE COUN- authorities and give them to rules that allow in areas that have been TY Regional county mayors. WJHL reported municipali- historically underserved. Animal Services that the bill would limit county ties to issue re- did a routine boards of health to an adviso- microchip ry role if a public health emer- scan, it gency is declared by the county learned that the mayor. In that situation, the chip’s owner, a stray county board of health would cat named Coal, advise the mayor regarding the had been roaming adoption and enforcement of the streets for 14 any rules or regulations. years. Coal was re- united with his fam- TEXAS ily. ● HARRIS COUN- TY has sued the Texas De- partment of Transporta- tion to stop expansion of 20 MARCH 22, 2021 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of COUNTIES COUNTY NEWS

BRIGHTIDEAS ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. Orange County Makes Travel Easier for Airport Passengers with Disabilities

“We thought we hit the jack- cial assistance and provides comes,” Waters said. with overstimulating factors PROBLEM: pot when we discovered the personalized help for travel- She explained how her team such as bright lights, nois- Airport travel is often difficult Helping Hands program,” she ers through every step of the works closely with TSA and uti- es, TSA screening and large for individuals with an autism said. arrival, check-in, security and lizes the TSA Cares program crowds. spectrum disorder or other The county-owned John boarding processes. where travelers are connected The program has assisted hidden disabilities. Wayne Airport launched the “It’s a concierge type of pro- to a passenger support special- 118 individuals to date. Helping Hands program in gram that is specialized and ist to help them through the se- Customer relations staff SOLUTION: 2018 to relieve stress for indi- custom tailored to families and curity process. completed the Airports Coun- Create a program that provides viduals with disabilities during individuals with special needs,” As part of the program, indi- cil International (ACI) Disabil- customized assistance to make their travels. Waters said. viduals receive yellow brace- ity Sensitivity Training to inter- the traveling process smoother for Customer Relations Staff While it’s not required, indi- lets to be easily identified by act with travelers with physical, those who need additional help. Specialist Cheryl Waters said viduals who know they will be airport employees who know sensory, mental and other hid- her team saw a need for the traveling through the airport that extra care and time may be den disabilities. by Rachel Looker program and felt they could may reach out before their needed. Waters said training is also staff writer provide a personalized and day of travel online or over the Waters said the bracelets offered to other airline part- customized experience to help phone to the airport’s custom- are more discrete than other ners. Sandee Evanskey hadn’t travelers passing through the er relations staff to coordinate identifiable means such as lan- “It equips us and equips our been on a plane for more than airport. assistance. yards. staff to be much more sensitive 20 years. Waters helped Evanskey on “We custom tailor it to their “We wanted something kind and have a better understand- The almost 70-year-old Or- the day she was traveling to see needs and their comfort,” Wa- of inconspicuous to where our ing of what somebody with ange County, Calif. resident her daughter. ters said. team here at the airport could special needs might be experi- uses a walker and has a fear of “Cheryl treated my moth- The airport also offers tours recognize that they may be a encing,” she said. flying. er as if she was her own,” La- before a trip to walk individu- part of the Helping Hands pro- Customer relations staff Her daughter, Staci LaMar, Mar said. “She met her curb- als through the major steps of gram, but not really drawing formed partnerships with lo- had concerns prior to her side at departures, walked her travel and experience the air- attention to themselves,” she cal and national organizations mother’s trip to come see her through the check-in process, port environment. said. including the Orange County in Savannah, Ga., for the hol- through security and got her to “We work with TSA to pro- Waters, who coordinates Alzheimer’s Association, the idays, knowing she faces mo- her gate safely.” vide a mock security screening requests for assistance, ex- Orange County Braille Insti- bility challenges and is tech- The Helping Hands program experience so that when their plained how airports pose spe- tute, the University of Califor- nologically challenged when it works with the Transportation bag is taken and put through cific challenges for individuals nia and the Orange County comes to routine airport tasks Security Administration (TSA) the conveyor belt, they know with an autism spectrum disor- Deaf Equal Access Foundation, such as checking in at a kiosk. and airlines to arrange for spe- what to expect when the flight der or other hidden disabilities among others. Other collabo- rations involve parent and ed- ucator groups. Waters emphasized the im- portance of working with com- munity partners and working as a team of airport staff to get a similar program up and run- ning. “I think it’s important to let the public know that we have staff that are capable, they’re educated, they’re sensitive and our whole John Wayne Airport team works to provide the best customer experience that they can through this program.”

Orange County’s Helping Hands program is the recipi- ent of a Best in Category 2020 NACo Achievement Award in the Human Services category. For more information about the Helping Hands program at Orange County’s John Wayne Airport, contact Customer Re- The Helping Hands Program at the county-operated John Wayne Airport in Orange County, Calif. helps individuals with disabilities lations Staff Specialist Cheryl navigate through the airport during their travels. Photo courtesy of John Wayne Airport Waters at [email protected].