NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES ■ WASHINGTON, D.C. VOL. 40, NO. 17 ■ SEPTEMBER 15, 2008 N.C. counties Congress is make switch to digital TV back – For What? BY CHARLES TAYLOR SENIOR STAFF WRITER BY JEFF ARNOLD DEPUTY LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR Five North Carolina counties got the jump on the rest of the na- Congress has returned from its tion this month, when TV stations summer recess to a very uncertain serving them switched from analog future. Very little, if anything, of to digital broadcasting. interest to counties will be passed While the transition is a federal before it adjourns for the November one, counties may wonder, “Why elections. The target adjournment is should we care?” One need only ask the fi rst week in October. Mark Boyer, New Hanover Coun- The only required action that ty’s public information officer. Congress must take is to fund the Just days before the change was to federal government for FY09, and other than possibly passing the See SWITCH page 2 defense appropriations bill, all the other agencies will have to be funded through a continuing resolution or QuickTakes an omnibus appropriations bill. A continuing resolution would essen- tially fund agencies at current levels Counties with to a date certain next year, and the Highest Median omnibus approach would fund the Household Income agencies at a proscribed level for the Counties and their interests were well represented at the recent Democratic and Republican national entire year. conventions. At the DNC in Denver (top photo), Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell is pictured with (l-r) Im- Loudoun County, Va. $107,207 Even getting this done may mediate Past President Eric Coleman; President-Elect Valerie Brown; Kathie Novak, fi rst vice president, Fairfax County, Va. $105,241 National League of Cities; Rendell; and Susan Burgess, councilmember, Charlotte, N.C. At the RNC in St. Howard County, Md. $101,672 Paul, NACo offi cers, members and staff pose at the convention center: (l-r) Ed Rosado, legislative director; See CONGRESS page 5 Somerset County, N.J. $97,658 Ken Mayfi eld, commissioner, Dallas County, Texas and former NACo president; First Vice President Teresa Morris County, N.J. $94,684 Altemus; Second Vice President Glen Whitley; and Larry Naake, executive director. Source: 2007 American Community Survey, INSIDE >> U.S. Census Bureau From ‘sporks’ to ‘spudware,’ counties going green

BY CHARLES TAYLOR along the way, such as Capt. Carbon convicted murderer, told the San SENIOR STAFF WRITER and Capt. Green. Mateo County Times, “…[A] lot of San Mateo is among the latest people say they’ll want to go green, Gwinnett County, Ga. employees Until recently, San Mateo Coun- crop of counties that are stepping and the jail isn’t just putting out a “do good” while learning to lead. ty, Calif. jail inmates were blowing up their environmental efforts. bunch of rhetoric. They did it.” >> Page 3 through 3,000 disposable plastic Churchill County, Nev. is adding In an interview with County News, spoons per day — used once then solar panels to a recreational build- Quinlan said: “What we’re teaching Realtors, NACo plan Chicago hous- off to the landfi ll. ing in hopes of meeting all of the them is a little civic responsibility ing conference. >> Page 3 But that was before “Capt. facility’s energy needs. In Harris in protecting the environment, and Spork” took command of the enter- County, Texas, a new tax abatement some of them fi nd it a really cool NACo’s geographically diverse prise known as the Maguire Men’s program is providing incentives thing to do.” 2008-2009 leadership team. Correctional Facility. Spork, actu- for developers to construct LEED- Sporks are 14 times more expen- >> Page 4 ally Capt. John Quinlan, introduced certifi ed “green” buildings. sive than plastic spoons — 14 cents Counties recognized for arts and reusable, recyclable combination In Quinlan’s jail, even some of a piece versus a penny each, but culture contributions. >> Page 5 spoon-forks — sporks — to the jail. the most hard-nosed inmates are He’s picked up other green monikers taking notice. Ken Watson, 37, a See GREEN page 7 2 September 15, 2008 CCountyountyNNewsews • Conservation Analog-to-digital switch comes six months early for counties Awards open SWITCH from page 1 information sessions in its lobby sets and receivers,” Copps said. SpeedRead »»» to inform clients how to apply for “Without some planning, there occur, Hurricane Hanna had the converter vouchers, according to could be some serious adverse for entries coastal county in its crosshairs. » National digital TV transition Feb. LaVaughn Nesmith, DSS director. environmental consequences to BY JAMES DAVENPORT The FCC even considered post- 17, 2009 Each U.S. home is eligible for up to all this.” PROJECT MANAGER poning the transition. » Counties have a stake in a success- two $40 coupons to purchase two For other counties consider- “We rely heavily on area ful DTV transition converters, regardless of income. ing doing public outreach, Boyer NACo is now accepting nomi- media to get hurricane infor- “Staff and public offi cials went advises: “Remember that there Outreach to low-income and non- nations for the County Leadership mation out,” Boyer said. If the » out to adult care/nursing homes are people out there who are cable/satellite households key in Conservation Awards program. switch-over had left residents to explain the digital conversion technically challenged, who may The awards recognize leadership, unable to receive TV signals, the » FCC analyzing data from N.C. pilot process and available waivers,” need help even plugging in their innovation and excellence in local county’s ability to disseminate to improve nationwide switch-over Nesmith wrote in an e-mail. converter box.” land conservation and park creation emergency information would Boyer said the county’s Hu- New Hanover County created a by counties. have been hampered. man Relations Commission ar- special phone number, 798-4DTV, Now in its fi fth year, the program On the day of the transi- actively involved from the very ranged dozens of forums at local so those having problems with is a collaborative effort with The tion, 226 viewers called the beginning,” he said. “Our Hu- churches. their converter boxes could call Trust for Public Land, National As- area’s four commercial TV man Relations Department has Between now and Feb. 17, the county Fire Service. Someone sociation of County Planners, and stations with questions about been working with some of the the FCC will be gathering data from the department would make National Association of County Park the changeover, according to poor in the county to get them from the North Carolina pilot, a double-duty home visit to hook and Recreation Offi cials. Mediaweek.com. The fi ve-county informed.” to help improve the nationwide up the converter — and provide Awards are presented to NACo area has a population of more Low-income households with- switch-over. “We need to really general fi re safety tips, including member counties in three population than 402,000. Only one caller out cable or satellite TV were a key learn from what you’ve just ex- checking and distributing smoke categories: small (under 150,000); was unaware of the switch, target audience. If they didn’t have perienced,” FCC Commissioner detectors. medium (150,000 – 499,999); and Mediaweek reported. The other “It’s a good opportunity to get large (more than 500,000). Applica- counties in the market are your messages out too,” Boyer tions will be judged based on a broad Bladen, Brunswick, Columbus said. range of criteria including leadership, and Pender. FCC’s Ensslin said, “There’s innovation, benefi ts to underserved The Wilmington area volun- going to be ever-increasing re- populations, and benefi ts to quality of teered to be the Federal Com- sources available to other commu- life and environmental quality. munications Commission’s nities between now and February Last year, fi ve counties received (FCC) guinea pig and make 17”— such as public service an- awards for their leadership, innova- the transition six months before nouncements, and as “efforts by tion and excellence on local land the mandatory nationwide the broadcasters, and the cable and conservation and park creation deadline of Feb. 17, 2009. Since satellite operators ramp up.” initiatives across America. the test market was announced He added that FCC plans to The deadline for submissions last spring, county offi cials have send “at least a commissioner is Nov. 21, and the awards will be been working with the FCC to and staff ” to 81 of the nation’s presented at NACo’s Legislative Con- get the word out. 210 TV markets between now and ference in March 2009. Additional “We’ve had people on the February 17. “That’s one of the information, nomination forms and ground there since April,” lessons that we took away from descriptions of past award-winning said Clyde Ensslin, an FCC Wilmington. You can get a lot of counties can be accessed on the Web spokesman. leverage from a one-day trip by a at www.naco.org/conservationawards “The first overtures were commissioner” if they participate or by contacting James Davenport made to local government or- in town hall meetings, appear on at 202/661-8807 or jdavenport@ ganizations. They were able to local radio and TV, and visit with naco.org. introduce this (transition plan) newspapers’ editorial boards. to local grassroots organiza- Photo courtesy of WHQR-FM, Wilmington, N.C. In FCC Commissioner Copps’ tions that had communications FCC Commissioner Kevin Martin (r) and Mayor Bill Saffo of Wilmington, written remarks, he said of the Counties Invest infrastructure in place, that had N.C. are surrounded by dignitaries as they prepare to fl ip the ceremonial Wilmington area: “I know being been well established [and] were switch to all-digital broadcasting in the fi ve-county area. fi rst is not easy. You didn’t have a in Open Space organizations that people in DTV playbook to memorize, or the community trusted.” These any history to fall back on. That’s Since 1996, 152 counties included libraries, social services newer digital-broadcast-ready Michael Copps said in remarks what makes this test so impor- have prioritized land protec- and public safety agencies, and sets — or digital-to-analog con- prepared for the changeover tant. You are actually helping to tion with new or reconsidered schools and faith-based organi- verter boxes — their TV pictures ceremony. “[T]he FCC has some write the playbook for the rest of conservation programs. In that zations. Boyer estimated that would have turned to snow when serious responsibilities to gather America!” time these counties have passed “300 or so” public meetings were the transition occurred at noon and distill and analyze and dis- 261 ballot measures, generat- held in the fi ve-county area. Sept. 8. seminate far-and-wide the lessons (For more information about the DTV ing more than $14 billion for In addition, New Hanover The FCC assigned coordinators we learn here.” transition, visit www.dtv.gov; to open space, parks, watersheds, devoted a section of its homep- to each county to do outreach and He said areas of interest include learn more about the converter box recreational lands and wildlife age to the digital TV — or education, working with local the following: program, go to www.dtv2009.gov.) preserves. More than 76 percent DTV — transition. It links to partners. “Meetings were set up • which messages worked and of all county conservation bal- a page fi lled with information in which the FCC representatives which didn’t lot measures in the last decade about the switch and toll-free could explain that the fi rst step is • where residents found helpful Corrections have won voter approval. These telephone numbers to contact to raise awareness that the transi- information, and numbers show that increasingly the FCC or to fi nd about gov- tion is coming,” Ensslin said, “and • whether new antennas were Meryl Zaglin’s name was both voters and counties are act- ernment coupons to purchase then the second is to help people needed to receive digital signals. spelled incorrectly in the Model ing locally to address issues that converter boxes. identify if the transition will affect “Also, for those who bought Counties’ feature article, “All- really matter to them, such as the William Kopp Jr. is a New them, and if so, what are the action new digital TVs, what’s happened access Playground Lets Kids protection of land and water re- Hanover County commissioner steps they need to take.” to all those old analog sets, because with Disabilities Play, Too,” sources. For more information, and president of the North Car- New Hanover County’s De- communities around the country which appeared in the Sept. 1 go to www.landvote.org. olina Association of County partment of Social Services will face the problem, just like you issue of County News. Commissioners. “We’ve been (DSS) hosted two outreach and did, of where to put all those old • CCountyountyNNewsews September 15, 2008 3 Academy helps employees develop leadership skills BY ELIZABETH PERRY themselves on their own time. looking for ways to expand training STAFF WRITER “We wanted to provide a quality opportunities to its employees. Jock product to the Dream House that Connell, county administrator, and Gwinnett County, Ga. is helping would enhance their ability to care his executive staff wanted a new its employees develop their man- for the children,” said Dennis Baxter, style of management accountability agement potential and helping the EXCEL class project manager. from previous administrations, where community at the same time through EXCEL is part of three-pronged decisions were made primarily at the its leadership training programs. Leadership Academy, whose other top. Poe said there were not enough Participants in the county’s EXCEL programs are called LEAD and training programs for employees that (Executive Competence, Excellence DRIVE, for Leadership, Education were focused on fi rst-line supervisors, and Leadership) class complete a and Development; and Direction, management or advanced manage- community service project as a way Responsibility, Initiative, Vision and ment. to test what they learned. Effectiveness, respectively. Kenneth “We saw there were some prob- Projects from recent years have Poe, Gwinnett County human re- lems or needs that managers had, included beautifi cation of the land- sources director, said the community and we decided to put together a scaping at the county Senior Ser- service part of EXCEL has taken on full-blown leadership academy and vices Center, and upgrading the a life of its own. provide the resources,” Poe said. playgrounds at a battered women’s “What they are able to achieve The academy’s funding is pro- shelter and at a school for children in a relatively short amount of time vided by the human resources with special needs. has been phenomenal,” Poe said. department. The LEAD program This year’s class project benefi ted “Each class has heard about what Photo courtesy of Gwinnett County, Ga. is facilitated entirely by county staff, the Dream House, a transition facility classes preceding them have done, Participants in the Gwinnett County Leadership Academy’s EXCEL class with minimal costs for materials. The that provides a homelike environ- and said, ‘How can we do one up built this handicapped accessible sandbox pavilion, paved the sidewalk EXCEL program includes facilita- ment for medically fragile children on them?’” and landscaped the surrounding area for the Dream House, a transition tion by staff from the University of moving from hospitals and long-term The Leadership Academy began facility for medically fragile children. The project was entirely funded by Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of care facilities back home with their in 2005, when the county was private business donations. Government at a cost of $26,000. The families. DRIVE program was most recently The class redesigned and renovat- facilitated by Georgia State Uni- ed the house’s inaccessible sandbox versity’s Andrew Young School of by turning it into a sandbox pavilion, Conference focuses on housing issues Government at a cost of $30,000. which could be used by all children Deputy County Administrator regardless of their physical condi- NACo, along with the National National Association of Realtors. housing issues, EAH can be a key Susan Lee teaches a Merit Rules tion. The students raised $12,500 Association of Realtors and other Breakout session topics include: tool among many, to retain produc- and County Administrator Policies for the project and did all the labor partners, is holding a one-day confer- • How and Why of Creating and tive, stable workforces and revitalize course for the academy. She said the ence — Employer-Assisted Housing: EAH Benefi t neighborhoods. county administrator’s offi ce is highly Bring Workers Home. • Advancing EAH Conference and hotel registra- supportive of the program, consisting Held on Monday, Oct. 6, at the • EAH in action and tion is limited. To see the full confer- of a mix of management skills and Intercontinental Hotel in Chicago, • Advocacy and Awareness ence schedule and to register, please the conference will focus on educa- As the nation seeks solutions to visit www.realtor.org/eahconference. President | Don Stapley See ACADEMY page 4 Publisher | Larry Naake tion and raising awareness about Public Affairs Director | Tom Goodman employer-assisted housing (EAH). Executive Editor | Beverly Anne Schlotterbeck Case studies and models of Senior Staff Writer | Charles Taylor Staff Writer | Elizabeth Perry successful EAH programs from Graphic Artist | Jack Hernandez companies and local governments Editorial Assistant | Christopher Johnson will be highlighted, and also provide

ADVERTISING STAFF a forum for key stakeholders to Job Market/Classifi eds representative connect and explore opportunities Christopher Johnson to work together to address this National Accounts representative Beverly Schlotterbeck critical component of workforce (202) 393-6226 • FAX (202) 393-2630 housing. Published biweekly except August by: Across the country, private and National Association of Counties Research Foundation, Inc. public sector employers are realizing 25 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. that Employer Assisted Housing is Washington, D.C. 20001 (202) 393-6226 | FAX (202) 393-2630 one way to provide safe mortgage E-mail | [email protected] products to fi rst-time homebuyers Online address | www.countynews.org and also benefi t employers and

The appearance of paid advertisements in County communities. EAH presents a News in no way implies support or en dorse ment by the mutually beneficial option for National As so ci a tion of Counties for any of the products, services or messages advertised. Peri od i cals postage companies seeking to improve paid at Wash ing ton D.C. and other offi ces. employee retention, employees Mail subscriptions are $100 per year for non-members. searching for affordable housing, $60 per year for non-members purchas ing multi ple cop- ies. Edu ca tion al insti tu tion rate, $50 per year. Member and communities working to revital- county supple men tal subscrip tions are $20 each. Send ize neighborhoods. payment with order and address changes to NACo, 25 Massachusetts Ave. N.W., Washing ton, D.C. 20001. Conference speakers in- POSTMASTER: send address changes to clude: Sharon H. Douglas, vice Coun ty News, 25 Massachusetts Ave. N.W., president, Human Resources and Washington, D.C. 20001 chief people offi cer, Afl ac; Chi- ■ (USPS 704-620) (ISSN: 0744-9798) cago Mayor Richard Daley, © National Association of Counties Research Foundation, Inc. (invited); Carl Guardino, Silicon Valley Leadership Group; Beverly Barnes, national housing consul- tant; and Cathy Whatley, Buck and Buck Inc., past president, 4 September 15, 2008 CCountyountyNNewsews • Academy aims Meet the 2008-09 NACo Leadership Team to develop more effective Steering Committee Leadership leadership skills Listed are the chairs and vice chairs of NACo’s steering com- • PUBLIC LANDS ACADEMY from page 3 mittees, standing committees and caucuses, as well as their staff Chair Liz Archuleta Coconino County, Ariz. liaisons. Leaders are appointed each year by the new NACo Vice Chair Reta Griffi th Pocahontas County, W. Va. president. NACo’s policies and legislative positions are developed Vice Chair David Tenney Navajo County, Ariz. SpeedRead »»» and reviewed by the 11 policy steering committees and adopted Vice Chair Lynda Ring-Erickson Mason County, Wash. by the Board of Directors and general membership. For contact NACo staff Ryan Yates » County Leadership Academy information, go to www.naco.org/steeringcommittees. helps employees develop man- • TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND TECHNOLOGY agement skills • AGRICULTURE AND RURAL AFFAIRS Chair Michael Talbett Lake County, Ill. » Specific parts of academy are Chair Keith Langenhahn Marathon County, Wis. Vice Chair Sherri McNamara Outagamie County, Wis. customized to meet the needs Vice Chair Gene Short Redwood County, Minn. Vice Chair Allan Angel Kent County, Del. of the local government Vice Chair Don Larson Brookings County, S.D. Vice Chair Patricia O’Bannon Henrico County, Va. NACo staff Erik Johnston Vice Chair James Carroll Bergen County, N.J. NACo staff Jeff Arnold classroom learning and community • COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT service. Chair Brent Paxton Lake County, Ill. • TRANSPORTATION Employees who are interested Vice Chair Joyce Poling Monroe County, Ind. Chair Scott Haggerty Alameda County, Calif. in becoming level-one supervisors Vice Chair Welton Cadwell Lake County, Fla. Vice Chair Leo Bowman Benton County, Wash. or managers must first take the Vice Chair Lee May DeKalb County, Ga. Vice Chair Mike Rogers Oakland County, Mich. Stephen Covey seminar, “7 Habits NACo staff Daria Daniel Vice Chair Joe Bryan Wake County, N.C. of Highly Effective People,” before Vice Chair Eldrin Bell Clayton County, Ga. they can be nominated by their • ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY AND LAND USE NACo staff Bob Fogel supervisors to participate in the fi rst- Chair Robert Cope Lemhi County, Idaho level LEAD program. Unoffi cially Vice Chair Pam Newton Lake County, Ill. • FINANCE dubbed “Gwinnett 101,” the class Vice Chair Annabeth Surbaugh Johnson County, Kan. Chair Valerie Brown Sonoma County, Calif. concentrates on HR policies, budget Vice Chair Penny Gross Fairfax County, Va. 3-yr. Appt. Mark Johnson North Dakota Association management, county operations, NACo staff Julie Ufner of Counties networking and resources. 3-yr. Appt. Sarah Merklein Catron County, N.M. Sheila Fowler, resources and • FINANCE AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS NACo staff David Keen marketing specialist with Gwinnett Chair Gail Mahoney Jackson County, Mich. County Parks and Recreation, took Vice Chair Ray Valdes Seminole County, Fla. • INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY both the “Habits” and LEAD courses NACo staff Steve Traylor Chair Webster Guillory Orange County, Calif. after hearing about them through Vice Chair Timothy Loewenstein Buffalo County, Neb. coworkers. She hopes to complete • HEALTH Vice Chair Karen Miller Boone County, Mo. the EXCEL program within the next Chair Linda Langston Linn County, Iowa NACo staff Bert Jarreau two years and said the classes have Vice Chair Joan Flynn Macomb County, Mich. helped her to become more effi cient Vice Chair Bob Janes Lee County, Fla. • MEMBER PROGRAMS AND SERVICES at planning and goal-setting. Vice Chair Susan Adams Marin County, Calif. Chair Helen Purcell Maricopa County, Ariz. Employees who complete LEAD Vice Chair Ken Ulman Howard County, Md. Vice Chair Doug Hill County Commissions can be nominated for the EXCEL Vice Chair Larry Johnson DeKalb County, Ga. Association of Pennsylvania class, which takes fewer students. Vice Chair Thomas Abinanti Westchester County, N.Y. Vice Chair Don Larson Brookings County, S.D. Poe said the class teaches advanced NACo staff Paul Beddoe NACo staff Stephanie Osborn leadership skills, project manage- ment, public speaking and group • HUMAN SERVICES AND EDUCATION • MEMBERSHIP project work. Chair Roger Dickinson Sacramento County, Calif. Chair Timothy Loewenstein Buffalo County, Neb. DRIVE, a program for high- Vice Chair Lu Barron Linn County, Iowa level executives, has been offered in Vice Chair Paul Wilson Olmsted County, Minn. Regional Vice Chairs pilot form twice and is still evolving. Vice Chair Mary Rose Wilcox Maricopa County, Ariz. West Region John Ellison Elko County, Nev. Students who completed LEAD and NACo staff Marilina Sanz Midwest Region Timothy Loewenstein Buffalo County, Neb. EXCEL or came into the county at the Southwest Region Cynthia Mitchell Denton County, Texas executive level as Poe did, are eligible. • JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY Central Region Tim McCormick Ohio County, W.Va. He said the purpose of the class is to Chair Tony Bennett Ramsey County, Minn. South Region Viola Harris Edgecombe County, N.C. expose students to upper-level, broad- Vice Chair David Hudson Sebastian County, Ark. Northeast Region Jim Scahill Armstrong County, Pa. er issues in county government. It is Vice Chair Audrey Nixon Lake County, Ill. NACo staff Andrew Goldschmidt also where they can go to learn more Vice Chair Katie Cashion Guilford County, N.C. about strategic planning, developing Vice Chair Nancy Schouweiler Dakota County, Minn. • RURAL ACTION CAUCUS metrics and get an understanding of Vice Chair Ron Wiborg Hennepin County, Minn. Chair Bill Kennedy Yellowstone County, Mont. the county’s goals and mission, and Vice Chair Scott Kimmich Kenton County, Ky. NACo staff Erik Johnston how it all fi ts together. NACo staff Donald Murray (senior staff) “The key component is to get • LARGE URBAN COUNTY CAUCUS people to go cross-functional,” he • LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT Chair Burrell Ellis DeKalb County, Ga. said. “Our executive team relies very Chair Harry Montoya Santa Fe County, N.M. NACo staff Dalen Harris heavily on working groups, where if Vice Chair William Brock Central Pennsylvania there is a special project or issue that Workforce Development Corp. needs to be researched, we will pull Vice Chair Lenny Eliason Athens County, Ohio together a working group consisting Vice Chair Carol Holden Hillsboro County, N.H. of people from various parts of the NACo staff Deseree Gardner organization.” • CCountyountyNNewsews September 15, 2008 5 NACo recognizes 2008 Arts and Culture award winners Award for County Arts Leadership BY JACQUELINE BYERS is one of a series of Public Leader- DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH ship in the Arts Awards given by Americans for the Arts. NACo’s Arts and Culture Com- Each year, the Americans for the mission presented its annual arts Arts, the nation’s leading nonprofi t awards to Fulton County, Ga., the organization for advancing the arts Franklin County, Ohio Board of in America and a long standing part- Commissioners and Peter S. Levi, ner of the NACo Arts and Culture president of the Greater Kansas Commission, recognizes county City Chamber of Commerce elected offi cials for their vision and during ceremonies at the commis- leadership in the advancement of sion’s Awards Dinner held during the arts and arts education. The NACo’s Annual Conference. Greater Columbus Arts Council The NACo Arts and Culture (GCAC) nominated the Franklin Award went to Fulton County, County Board of Commissioners Ga. for its Tour de 29, a Festival of for its 15 years of ongoing support Cities. Tour de 29 was initiated for GCAC’s Community Arts by the Fulton County Board of Education programs. Commissioners in 2005 to enhance Recently, the commissioners in- cultural programming in south creased their fi nancial commitment Fulton County. Led by the Fulton to the council by 270 percent from County Arts Council, Tour de 29 $150,000 per year to $400,000 to involves county government, seven support the Art in the House/Tran- municipalities, businesses and civic sit Arts programs, an after-school organizations. and teen art education program, A successful prototype for in partnership with the Columbus promoting the arts, community Federation of Settlements. Since awareness and economic growth, 2005, the Franklin County Board of Tour de 29 offers free cultural events Photo by Harry Hayes Commissioners has also provided the and programs in diverse traditional Franklin County, Ohio Commissioner Paula Brooks accepts the National Award for County Arts Leadership for GCAC Neighborhood Arts Grants and non-traditional venues, includ- her county from Americans for the Arts. (l-r) NACo President Don Stapely; Jay Dick, director of state and local Program with more than $200,000 to ing shops, restaurants, businesses, policy, Americans for the Arts; Brooks, and NACo Executive Director Larry Naake. fund $200 to $2,000 grant programs for amateur artists. libraries and other government in helping to launch a successful Robert L. Lynch, president and facilities, parks, nonprofi t organiza- united arts fund in the Kansas City CEO for Americans for the Arts, PProfirofi lleses iinn SServiceervice tions, schools and churches. The metropolitan area in cooperation praised the commissioners, saying, festival begins in September of each with the Arts Council of Metropoli- “The work of the Franklin County year and runs through October. tan Kansas City and the business Board of Commissioners on behalf Margie Gavin Woods The award was accepted on behalf community. Since its inception, the of the arts has established Franklin » of the county by Commissioner fund has generated more than $1 County as a national advocate for Commisioner Emma Darnell. million in grants for the local arts arts education. Their exemplary Will County, Ill. This year’s Arts Advocacy Award community. Levi, who is active in leadership in the state of Ohio has was presented to Peter S. Levi, numerous community and profes- signifi cantly increased funding in NACo Labor Steering Committee president of the Greater Kansas City sional organizations in the Greater the arts and cultural sector, while Chamber of Commerce. This award Kansas City area, has served as notably impacting the lives of local is presented each year to a local arts Chamber president since 1990. residents.” Years in NACo: 28 advocate in the host community of The third award was presented Franklin County Commissioner Years in public service: 28 NACo’s Annual Conference. to the Franklin County, Ohio Board Paula Brooks accepted the award Occupation: retired, Caterpillar Tractor, Inc. Levi was honored for his work of Commissioners. The National on behalf of the county. Education: Attended Lewis University, Romeoville, Ill. The hardest thing I’ve ever done: is raise a family. Partisan split means indecision in Congress Three people (living or dead) I would invite to dinner: Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks and John F. Kennedy. CONGRESS from page 1 Kennedy not returning to the Senate Meanwhile, efforts to use general because he is recuperating from revenue to fund the Federal High- The most adventurous thing I’ve done: is run for elected offi ce. be diffi cult because Republicans brain cancer surgery, the partisan way Trust Fund’s $8 billion shortfall My favorite way to relax is: by gardening. have signaled they will oppose split in the Senate is 48 to 48, far were rebuffed Sept. 8 in the Senate any continuing resolution that below what Majority Leader Harry because Sen. Judd Gregg (R-N.H.) My pet peeve is: someone who does not tell the truth. includes a moratorium on offshore Reid (D-Nev.) needs for effective and Jim DeMint (R-S.C.) objected My motto is: Let the works I’ve done speak for me. oil drilling. Such a moratorium has control of the Senate agenda. to the precedent of using general The last book I read was: the Bible. been included in either the interior As for other legislation, Sen. tax revenue to fund road projects. appropriations bill, or continuing Robert C. Byrd (D-W. Va.), chair- The fund is severely underfunded My favorite movie is: Rush Hour 3. resolutions for the past two decades. man of the Senate Appropriations because gasoline usage has dropped My favorite president is: John F. Kennedy. There is some effort to get a limited Committee, has fl oated a second dramatically as prices topped $4 per energy package passed that would economic stimulus bill with $50 bil- gallon. Sen. Reid has said he will allow for some drilling on the lion in funding for a lengthy laundry try again later in the month. Outer Continental Shelf off the list of programs and projects. House NACo continues to advocate East Coast, but that, too, is facing Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) for its legislative priorities and Keep up with NACo online ... opposition. has also called for a $50 billion county funding needs, but in this Because of the two senators package, but most observers agree environment it will be very diffi cult www.naco.org running for president, Sen. Biden’s that a hefty measure is likely to get to accomplish NACo’s aggressive running for vice president, and Sen. traction before adjournment. agenda. 6 September 15, 2008 CCountyountyNNewsews • ‘Dean’ of commissioners completes 44th year of service BY JASON KING Carolina Association of County ions of others, even if he does not . Commissioners (NCACC) has been agree with them. His willingness to able to identify is Bertie County’s work to amicable solutions has won Vance County Chairman Danny C.H. Edwards, who served 39 years, him admiration from colleagues Wright calls him his “mentor.” Fel- eight months. Pegram isn’t fi nished. and constituents alike. low Commissioner Deborah Brown This November his name will once “I consider all the actions of says he is “everybody’s favorite com- again appear on the ballot for the the governing body to be of impor- missioner.” County Manager Jerry county’s District 2 seat. He has no tance,” he said. “Some may be more Ayscue considers him the “epitome opposition. important to me and some may be of a public servant.” In his 44 years of service, Pe- more important to somebody else. If only everyone could be so gram has earned a reputation as a That’s the reason you have different popular. Quiet and unassuming by “crusader for the average citizen,” people and different thinking, so nature, Commissioner J. Timothy according to Ayscue, who has you can have a happy medium. Pegram isn’t your typical elected worked with Pegram as county “I don’t think that I have a com- offi cial. But his willingness to stick manager since November 1984. missioner that I don’t have a good up for his constituents — whomever “As an elected offi cial, he un- relationship with right now.” the opponent — has made him a derstands the responsibilities and Pegram was already a seasoned successful one. privilege of being a representative of commissioner when Wright joined In December, Pegram will com- the people,” Ayscue said. “I consider the board in 1982. Wright said plete his 44th year in offi ce — likely Mr. Pegram as the epitome of a Pegram commands such respect the longest tenure of any North public servant. He is special.” that if his opinion on an issue Carolina county commissioner One trait that makes Pegram so differed from Pegram’s, “I would ever. The next longest the North popular is that he values the opin- always reassess my thinking just Photo courtesy of Vance County, N.C. to make sure that I wasn’t leaving Commissioner J. Timothy Pegram (r) chats with his colleagues on the something out. Vance County, N.C. Board: Commissioner Deborah Brown, seated, and “He has been the champion of Commissioner Terry Garrison. the ‘little man’ and the poor man more than anybody I’ve ever met,” he has no set timetable for ending his “But I wouldn’t be afraid to run Wright said. historic career of public service. four years from now if I were in Pegram was fi rst elected in 1958. “I’m guessing this will probably good health.” After eight years on the Board of be my last term,” he said. “My wife Commissioners, however, his dis- wants me to stay on. If I didn’t stay (King is assistant communications trict had moved due to redistricting. on the board I’d probably sit down director, N.C. Association of County During the six-year period he was at home and dry up. Commissioners.) off the board, he lost an election for the only time in his life, falling to longtime NCACC District Director John E. Wilson. He was voted back onto the board in 1972. RestoreRestore thethe While he said he doesn’t like to admit that he has lost an election, it was probably for the best that he PartnershipPartnership had a break from public service to be able to focus on a budding busi- ness he owned, Henderson Truss A Campaign to Reestablish the Supply. Now retired after selling the business several years ago, Pegram Federal - County Partnership and his wife of more than 50 years, Peggy, follow Southern Vance High For decades, county and federal governments have School athletics with devout inter- est: their daughter, Darlynn, who worked together to answer the challenges facing played basketball and volleyball at the nation, but in recent years that partnership has the University of North Carolina, diminished. coaches the volleyball team, and their son-in-law Randy coaches Whether it is infrastructure, health care, housing, softball. Granddaughter Ashley re- homeland security, environment or justice programs, cently completed her fourth season on the Tar Heels softball team. each level of government has a role and responsibility, As his family has enjoyed success but they need to be coordinated for the best use of on the fi eld, Pegram has enjoyed it people and resources. on the county board. “Sometimes I don’t know myself To foster better coordination, NACo has launched a how I am as successful as I am in campaign to “Restore the Partnership” between the politics,” said Pegram. He is quick to credit his wife, who worked for Federal government and America’s counties. many years as a receptionist at a local doctor’s offi ce, with helping to get his name out to potential voters. “I think over the years I’ve been well liked.” Pegram admits he recently had a hard time deciding whether or not to Learn more by visiting www.naco.org run for another four-year term, but • CCountyountyNNewsews September 15, 2008 7 Nevada county leading the way in green energy production, green building

GREEN from page 1 Phase One is projected to cost Harris County’s new The program applies in unincor- She said the program was the out- about $110,000, but the county will incentives for building porated areas of the county, which growth of a strategic planning process Quinlan said the payoff comes over receive a roughly 50 percent rebate green includes 34 municipalities. To qualify, involving the county’s municipalities. time. He fi gures that in two weeks from the local electric utility, Sierra Harris County may be best the minimum increase in a building’s Among the goals that emerged were of use, the costs balance out. Pacifi c’s SolarGenerations unit. known outside Texas as the home value due to its green features and strengthening the county’s tax abate- Quinlan also introduced “spud- Goetsch said savings like those of Houston. But the county is also LEED certifi cation must be at least ment program and inducing green ware” to the jail for staff meals allow the county to address other making a name for itself with a new $100,000. building. The idea to combine the — biodegradable utensils made priorities, such as paving roads and environmental program to encourage LEED certifi es buildings at four two came from Powell’s boss, Da- from potato starch and soybean building infrastructure — “and the green buildings. levels: basic, silver, gold and plati- vid Turkel, director, Community oil. Other environmental efforts at things that people need instead of The county is offering a partial num. Under the county’s program, Services. the jail include switching to green paying for energy.” tax abatement for up to 10 years for a developer’s total investment must cleaning products, and recycling He’d like to see the green energy new commercial buildings that obtain be $10 million for basic, $4 million NACo’s Green pallets and packaging from deliver- program grow to the point that certifi cation under the U.S. Green for silver, $2 million for gold and $1 Government Initiative ies, which used to be discarded. The the county could develop its own Building Council’s LEED (Leader- million for platinum. To find out what other coun- recycling proceeds now go into an energy credit management capa- ship in Energy and Environmental The tax abatement begins once ties are doing, check out NACo’s inmate welfare fund that helps pay bility. Instead of receiving credits Design) program. the building has been completed searchable online database of for rehabilitation programs. or rebates, the county could pay “If there’s a company that’s and LEED certifi cation has been county green programs, policies, Going green in a jail does have the full up-front costs of its proj- considering a green building develop- obtained. plans, staff descriptions and more some challenges, Quinlan said; ects and market its green credits ment…, this is basically an incentive To date, one application is being at www.naco.org/greencounties. inmates can turn anything into a to other cities in the Southwest to tilt their decision in favor of going processed, Powell said — for a $6 To add information about your weapon. That’s why their sporks are that haven’t been able to meet green,” said Nancy Powell, economic million medical offi ce building go- county, submit it by e-mail to checked twice a day, morning and their goals to cut greenhouse gas development director in the county’s ing for gold certifi cation. Another Kelly Zonderwyk at kzonderwyk@ evening; they must wash and reuse emissions. Community Services Department. is pending. naco.org. them each day. The jail also began composting food waste this year — 340 cubic yards in the fi rst month — which Green Government Webinars brought another potential security threat. The compost bins are large enough for a man to hide in. That’s 2008 Schedule why the bins are probed with long sticks before they’re carted off, which is done only after inmate counts have Register today to participate in FREE green government webinars through the NACo Green Government Initia- been completed. tive. Participants will learn valuable background information on each subject, discover new resources and hear A rancher, as well as the jail’s case studies from various counties. To register visit www.greencounties.org and click on webinars and upcoming major domo, Quinlan brought his events. All you will need is a computer with Internet access and a phone line. For more information contact Kelly personal respect for the environment Zonderwyk at [email protected] or 202.942.4224. to the job. “I’m very friendly to the m earth because I need it to be friendly September Linking Renewables and December back to me,” he said. m Demand Response m Energy Effi ciency in Tuesday, October 21 Energy Effi ciency Nevada county County Buildings: Western 2 – 4 p.m. EDT in County Buildings: greenlights more green Region Southwest Region power Thursday, September 18 m Biofuels: What They Mean Thursday, December 4 Churchill County, Nev., popula- 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. EDT for County Fleets 2 – 4 p.m. EST tion 26,000, is located in northern m Wednesday, October 29 m Nevada approximately one hour east Energy Effi cient Server 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. EDT Strategies for Purchasing of Reno and bills itself as “a leading Rooms in County Buildings Renewables producer of green energy.” Thursday, September 25 November Monday, December 8 Among its current efforts, the 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. EDT m 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. EST county is adding solar panels to Wind Power: Turning a a recreation and swimming pool m Breeze into Cash for Your m Greening County Fleets Community Solar Power: Lighting Up complex, which had already been 101 the Value of the Sun using solar collectors to heat water Monday, November 3 for the pool, according to County Tuesday, September 30 2 – 4 p.m. EST Thursday, December 11 Manager Brad Goetsch. 2 – 4 p.m. EDT 2 – 4 p.m. EST m Phase One would add 10 mega- Landfi ll Gas to Energy m watts (mw) of generating capacity Greenopolis October Thursday, November 13 to the facility, followed by another 2 – 4 p.m. EST Wednesday, December 17 30 mw, which “will bring that m Playbook for 2 – 4 p.m. EST building pretty close to … [energy] Green Buildings and m Energy Effi ciency in self-suffi ciency,” Goetsch said. The Neighborhoods Project Past Webinars available county also plans to add 30 mw of County Buildings: Mid-West Tuesday, October 7 Region online at solar generation to its water process- 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. EDT www.greencounties.org ing plant to help run its pumps. Monday, November 17 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. EST The solar installation at the recre- m Energy Effi ciency ation complex is expected to pay for itself in eight to 13 years. The panels in County Buildings: have a 25-year warranty, Goetsch Southeast Region said; “so if we can get a payoff in Thursday, October 16 approximately 10 years, that gives 2 – 4 p.m. EDT us 15 years or longer of free energy, basically, from that project.” 8 September 15, 2008 CCountyountyNNewsews • Financial Services News Counties Assess NACo’s Deferred Compensation Program (NACo hosted a meeting in June 2008 new employee orientation meet- sion for Sonoma County, Calif. the providers have to say. information, more planning for re- at Nationwide Retirement Solutions’ ings to answer specifi c questions He said it’s critical for workers These are some of the innovations tirement, planning for the future.” home offi ce to explore what can be done immediately, noted Mark Acker, the who don’t have a computer to do put in place by Karen Watkins’ divi- Feedback also led to Ada Coun- to help counties boost participation in county’s CFO. Often, these are tech- research or access their account sion, which is new for the county. ty’s commissioners voting to increase the deferred compensation program as nical questions that county staff does be provided adequate resources to Watkins, manager of the employee the county’s matching contribution well provide plan sponsors with other not have the answers to. Snohomish educate themselves. benefi ts division, and a coworker for employees in the deferred comp resources. The following is the second in County, Wash., which is switching to Counties also recognize the im- are solely dedicated to employee program. a series of articles based on discussions Nationwide as its exclusive provider, portance of educating older workers benefi ts. Last spring she circulated from that meeting.) plans for a representative to attend that it’s never too late to get started. a benefi ts survey for the fi rst time (Next issue: Financial Services News will Education, or a lack thereof, its weekly new orientation meetings, “You need to leave them with hope to the county’s employees, asking focus on areas where counties can improve can often be the deciding factor in said Sandi Cook, the human resource and not be so doom and gloom,” what they liked and didn’t like and their deferred comp programs. Financial why an employee participates in a analyst in the county. Tom Motes said. what they would like to see. “The Services News was written by Kathryn deferred compensation program. Not only is the education com- employees wanted more fi nancial Reed, who writes for NACo.) “Education will increase participa- ponent critical at the time of hire, Group meetings tion,” said Terry Tallent, director of but having the paperwork there for Motes is the human resources personnel services for Tulsa County, people to sign is crucial. Frequently, director for Volusia County, Fla. How Counties Get the Word Out Okla. “Deferred compensation is a employees take information home His experience in the county and benefi t we tout when we are doing and may never read it, and therefore with other organizations has shown • Use the county’s intranet to post information about the plan, employee recruiting.” never sign up. him that when the employer assists upcoming seminars, when the plan’s representatives will be in town, with the education seminars the phone numbers and any other resources. Get them at the get-go One-on-one interaction meetings have a more authentic feel, • Include blurbs about deferred comp in newsletters. Use anecdotal Another way to harness par- Bringing people in to educate staff compared to vendors solely doing the information, profi le employees to make it more real. Use charts and ticipants is through aggressive new is another critical component. “You presentation because then it can feel graphics to demonstrate how savings plans work. hire orientation meetings. Everyone need the ability to have seminars like a sales presentation. • Use photos of blue collar and white collar employees. admits this time period can be over- at offsite locations so the guy who Ada County, Idaho staged an • Send deferred comp information with paychecks or pay stubs whelming, but it’s also when staff has works out on the road crew has the open house in January to educate a couple times a year. the new hire’s full attention. opportunity to hear about what the workers. Another is planned for this • Have written material available at all county sites, not just in In Monmouth County, N.J. the plan is about,” said Jonathan Kadlec, fall. All 1,600 employees are encour- the human resources offi ce. deferred comp representative is at manager of the revenue and debt divi- aged to attend to hear fi rsthand what • CCountyountyNNewsews September 15, 2008 9 News From the Nation’s Counties

XARIZONA Analysts say the decline can be above Warm Springs Valley north of XNORTH CAROLINA the San Antonio Metropolitan MARICOPA COUNTY Board attributed to an increasingly older, Reno, the Review Journal reported. The MECKLENBURG Health District and Bexar County of Supervisors approved an upgrade more affl uent population, includ- The company said if the county COUNTY Department of Social Hospital District. to sheriff’s deputy cars in an effort ing those who immigrated a while approves its plans, the $300 million Services (DSS) will contribute PARKER COUNTY and the to speed response times to 911 calls, ago, and that the highest rates of project could break ground next year $250,000 to a regional Urban city of Weatherford were honored the Arizona Republic reported. The poverty can be found among recent and be operating by 2010. The wind League program that helps at-risk for their joint animal shelter. cars will be equipped with systems immigrants. farm would generate 150 megawatts youth become self-suffi cient. The similar to laptops that will replace of electricity, enough to power an program trains 18-21 year olds for XWASHINGTON police radios. The computers XGEORGIA estimated 125,000 homes. the workforce. Fifty young adults, ages 16 to 21, will enable offi cers to access data HOUSTON COUNTY com- Mary Wilson, DSS director, spent part of their summer vaca- immediately about outstanding missioners approved a measure to XNEW JERSEY said: “It is our fi rm belief that when tion learning about “green jobs” warrants, license plate numbers and save as much as $100,000 a year on MONMOUTH COUNTY’s we collaborate with successful — those related to environmental fi le reports, instead of having to call inmate health care, the Sun News Board of Chosen Freeholders has programs, we can leverage county and social responsibility — in dispatch for the information. The reported. While most county jail created an advisory panel to explore dollars effi ciently and effectively to KING COUNTY’s Opportunity system will cost $2 million initially, inmates are treated by Houston “green” issues. The committee is deliver a wider range of services to Greenway pilot. and $850,000 a year to maintain. Healthcare under a pricing agree- intended to steer the county and its our citizens.” The six-week “earn and learn” ment with the county, 1 percent municipalities toward environmen- The program has an 80 percent program provided paid internships XCALIFORNIA of the most serious inmate health tally friendly policies and programs, success rate of having participants while students built practical job • FRESNO COUNTY Sheriff’s problems are treated at the Medical such as purchasing hybrid vehicles enter job placements, job training, skills. It exposed young adults who Department released 22 inmates Center of Central Georgia in BIBB and more energy effi cient lighting. enrolling in college or enlisting in have had previous experience with charged with nonviolent misde- COUNTY. The new measure will The move was prompted by a the military, the county said. the court system to living-wage meanors from the county jail in enable the county to contract with state mandate requiring a 20-percent jobs in a variety of environmental response to a $2.8 million budget Blue Cross Blue Shield to negotiate cut in greenhouse gas emissions XTEXAS fi elds — ranging from water quality cut. Sheriff Margaret Mims told prices with the medical center. The by 2020, according the Asbury Park BEXAR and PARKER coun- protection at King County Waste- the Mercury News she will need to total cost to the county will be a Press. ties were honored recently for their water Treatment Division to public release 800 inmates and lay off 50 fee that adds up to 8.5 percent of “We will be able to make an cooperative efforts with cities by transportation jobs such as hybrid correctional offi cers. The depart- the bill. inventory of emissions from county the Texas Association of Counties bus maintenance at King County ment will release 40 inmates a day operations and then set reachable and Texas Municipal League. Metro Transit. until Sept. 22, when two fl oors of XMARYLAND targets, and ways to achieve the The city of San Antonio and the jail will close. This isn’t the fi rst WORCESTER COUNTY is targets,” said Freeholder John Bexar County received a City- (News From the Nation’s Counties time the jail has released inmates considering joining SOMERSET D’Amico Jr., who introduced the County Cooperations Award for is compiled by Charles Taylor and from the 3,478-bed facility because and CARROLL counties in al- resolution to create the panel. collaborating on a preventative Elizabeth Perry, staff writers. If you of overcrowding. lowing its residents to erect wind public health care service system, have an item for News From, please • SOLANO COUNTY has a turbines in their yards. Planning XNEW YORK the San Antonio Business Journal re- e-mail [email protected] or eperry@ new whistleblower hotline for offi cials are looking at adding provi- • ONONDAGA COUNTY’s ported. The localities consolidated naco.org.) employees and vendors to report sions for small wind energy systems lawmakers, by a narrow margin, incidents of waste, abuse and into the county’s comprehensive recently passed a measure to ban fraud, the Times Herald reported. plan, according to the Daily Times. the sale of cigarettes to custom- Word Search Other counties with whistleblower No state legislation on residential ers 18 and younger. Current state hotlines are LOS ANGELES, wind turbines exists, however coun- law allows 18-year-olds to buy ORANGE, SANTA CRUZ, ties can decide their own policies. tobacco. 2008 Hurricane Names VENTURA, SAN MATEO and Unlike Carroll County’s ordi- This was the County Legis- SAN BERNARDINO. nance, which allows for turbines no lature’s second attempt to enact T K G V M E O R D G P V X H P P T V D W In an announcement about taller than 150 feet and producing such a law, according to The Post- G H W T Y O C U P P G W B G T I B K Y Z the program, Auditor-Controller no more than 50 kilowatts, the Standard. It includes an exemption Q L U U J V Y R G B A I M S J U V W S Q Simona Padilla-Scholtens said Worcester provisions would call for for 18-year-old military service Y U H Z D W E H K O X Y L Z F A J G Y M it would help the county pro- shorter, smaller turbines producing members. The measure must be F D U W M Q V Y R N H R J W E P R F L W mote proper accountability of 1.8 kilowatts. signed by the county executive to S M A I E U L X N B Y E R M P K N U L P resources. take effect. O T V L R I N L L S Y L X E J M M E A C “The opportunity to raise a XMISSOURI • And the winner is…. YATES R L N F K V B S Z X P Y G H M T A H S L red fl ag already exists. We wanted In an effort to increase awareness COUNTY Sheriff’s Department. It to streamline the process and to of the meth problem in JEFFER- took fi rst place in its class in Law and F G L R P Y U Y E J G K D R U H T R A P reinforce the public’s confi dence SON COUNTY, the sheriff’s de- Order magazine’s International A E N E R G V J G N X C E D K R L B C E in our ability to use taxpayer dol- partment recently began listing the Police Vehicle Design Contest N K M D R A U O D E N I H P E S O J F O lars appropriately and effectively,” addresses of methamphetamine for its patrol car markings. H I M Z T T M O O G C V F B V T I I Q O she said. labs it seized in 2007 and 2008 on its The judges said: “Yates Coun- P P T S Q E N O L J E B W Q S T H J X R • A decline in the poverty rate Web site, www.jcsd.org. The site also ty’s unique color combination is E S U T W C W V L H H B M I R S Y T J L in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE, includes the addresses of buildings bright and immediately catches U G K F P I Z H Y A F L R X G R Z N D G RIVERSIDE, SAN BERNAR- where offi cers found materials used your attention. The emblem X B P P T B A F N H P C J Q B B I G D K DINO and VENTURA counties is to make meth illegally. The Associ- coming out of [the image of] the Z K L N W M G N W O K P V B F V O U E Q bucking a national trend, according ated Press reported there were 770 state makes this car really pop. G M B J I V A P H F O I J G X O I R Y Q to the Los Angeles Times. While meth lab incidents statewide in the It is a clean, bold, well-rounded national levels have risen over the fi rst six months of 2008, with 108 package,” The Chronicle-Express R F S K H N P B E B M A L V Q N L R E C past seven years, some localities of them in Jefferson County. reported. K F L W A O M S D Y U I T X Y G Z H R P have experienced a drop, most Yates County won in the Arthur Gustav Marco Teddy noticeably in Los Angeles County, XNEVADA category for departments of up Bertha Hanna Nana Vicky where the percentage of residents Planning offi cials in WASHOE to 25 members in the eastern Cristobal Ike Omar Wilfred living below the poverty level COUNTY are reviewing an energy United States. Its competition Dolly Josephine Paloma dropped from 17.9 percent in 2000 company’s plans for what would be included Blackford County, Ind.; Edouard Kyle Rene to 14.7 in 2007. The new data comes the state’s fi rst large wind farm. Polk County, Ga.; Clay County, Fay Laura Sally from the Census Bureau’s American A Las Vegas fi rm, Nevada Wind, Ill.; Hampton County, S.C.; and Created By Matthew Fellows Community Survey. wants to build 20 to 30 turbines Powell County, Ky. 10 September 15, 2008 CCountyountyNNewsews • Research News Interlocal Agreements — An Option for Cooperative Service Delivery

BY ALEX WELSCH based on usage to calculate required shelter for hurricane evacuees. The hospital services facilitates coopera- recent years. Leading administrators ASSOCIATE RESEARCH DIRECTOR payments for services. Jeffcom illus- Austin-Travis County Health and tion across two districts. The City of and scholars have both commented trates the case of a county assuming Human Services Department, for San Antonio and Bexar County on strategies for structuring agree- Many counties in the U.S. con- a central role in providing services example, has responsibility for special recently won an award for coopera- ments. According to one report, tinue to turn to interlocal agreements to local cities and districts. However, medical needs shelters. tion from the Texas Association of careful crafting of agreements as they face budget constraints and a an intergovernmental administrative Interlocal agreements — between Counties and the Texas Municipal includes attention to governance growing number of cross-boundary board and several technical advisory outlying coastal communities and League. The award commended and operating structures, fi nancing challenges such as emergency committees are structured to assure the shelter-hub — are required in consolidation of the San Antonio mechanisms, personnel commit- preparedness and environmental diverse views in management. pre-arranging shelter spaces for Metropolitan Health District and the ments, duration and reporting. A management. Mutual aid in traditional fi re and special-needs evacuees. The plan Bexar County Hospital District. An specifi c duration or a sunset clause At a basic level, interlocal agree- emergency services has a long his- recognizes the need for fl exibility interlocal agreement covered joint for renewal may be particularly ments allow county leaders to tory, but agreements are periodically in different emergency situations, prenatal care in community-based important, since problems, roles and assemble resources regionally while updated. In a King County, Wash. but is fi rm on the need for formal clinics, collaboration on joint grant rules change over time. sharing both risks and benefi ts. With mutual aid agreement, parties agree pre-disaster agreements. applications for breast and cervical Some of the examples above also a focus on smaller scale initiatives, to respond to emergency requests cancer screening, and shared elec- suggest that interlocal agreements this Research News highlights sev- and determine whether equipment Parks and Recreation tronic information processing for can be combined effectively with eral cases of county governments and personnel resources can be A case from Clark County, Wash. patient appointments. Health districts more comprehensive plans. When using interlocal agreements in both rendered to the emergency site. If shows that cooperative arrangements were an important consideration of multiple jurisdictions are involved, cutting-edge and more traditional so, resources are dispatched, without can result in a substantial merging the area Citizens’ Commission on the plans outline a comprehensive but applications. compensation. of services in county parks and City/County Service Integration, fl exible strategy, while the agreements A large number of agreements The local fi re department, with recreation programs. Clark County which issued a report in 2004 (see provide for the specifi c commitments can be in place simultaneously. For “command control” of the situation, and the city of Vancouver have link below). needed for success. example, in 2004, Pinellas County, assumes liability or claims that may combined parks administration and Interlocal agreements are not Fla. counted 366 existing or proposed arise from command decisions. How- management for the city and unin- particularly new, but their potential (Research news was written by Alex Wel- agreements between the county ever, all parties agree to insure their corporated areas of Clark County. as a tool for government innovation sch, associate research director, awelsch@ government, local cities, and/or equipment and personnel, covering An agreement, which has been in has received considerable attention in naco.org.) districts. their operation. The King County place since 1997 but was recently agreement also permits cooperation amended and renewed, describes a Economic development on purchasing equipment. Any party gradual convergence of many city NACo on the Move and technology to the agreement may seek bids, so and county goals. Wireless Washtenaw illustrates long as the supplier honors the same In the earlier agreement, the city »NACo Officers and Elected Officials an agreement that was critical to bid for other parties to the mutual aid had administrative authority for all Glen Whitley, second vice president, and Jeff Arnold, deputy leg- implementing a technology-based agreement. capital projects. However, when resi- islative director, spoke at the Association of Arkansas Counties during economic development project in The concern for effective emer- dents in urbanizing, unincorporated its Aug. 13–14 conference in Pulaski County (Little Rock), Ark. Washtenaw County, Mich. The gency and disaster response has been areas voted for more comprehensive county uses a master participation especially strong since Hurricane parks development, the county role »NACo Staff agreement (MPA) whereby local gov- Katrina ravaged the Gulf Coast. became more prominent in the Chris Johnson has joined the Public Affairs ernments and others agree to provide The Capital Area Shelter Hub Plan combined department. Coordinated Department as the editorial assistant for County access and rights of way to rooftops developed by the city of Austin, and collection of a parks impact fee and News. Previously, Johnson was a copy editor/ or other facilities. The county can, in Travis and Williamson counties in a real estate excise tax supports the editorial assistant/reporter for the Fairfax County turn, use the rights of way in its own Texas shows that interlocal agree- agreement as well as progress on a Times. He graduated from George Mason Univer- agreement with a provider of wireless ments can play a key role in response recently approved comprehensive sity with a bachelor’s degree in communications- Internet services. Participants from strategies. The plan is an organizing plan for city-county parks. journalism. urban, suburban and rural communi- document for disaster relief services, Chris Johnson Matthew Fellows has joined ties generally receive no compensa- and it spells out city, county and Health care NACo’s Legislative Department tion, but are entitled to the benefi ts other governments’ roles in providing Another interlocal agreement on as the grassroots coordinator after more than a of the wireless network. The MPA is year as the editorial assistant for County News. He structured to assemble the disparate will work with NACo’s lobbyists to support NACo resources required for the system Featured Interlocal Agreements policy campaigns and refresh the Legislative Ac- to achieve economic development tion Network by using online activism tools for and other community objectives. • Washtenaw County, Mich. grassroots development and mobilization. Matthew Fellows Network coverage currently spans http://wireless.ewashtenaw.org 100 square miles. • Kirkland/King County, Wash. »Coming Up www.ci.kirkland.wa.us/dynamic/AssetFactory.aspx?did=4515 Andrew Goldschmidt, Jeff Arnold, Jacqueline Byers and Jim Public safety and • Vancouver/Clark County, Wash. Sawyer will speak at a special joint mini-conference with the Illinois emergency response www.cityofvancouver.us/upload/contents/732/Interlocal%20Parks%20 Counties Association and NACo in Cook County, Ill. Sept. 17–18. Interlocal agreements also have Agreement.pdf The conference will explore the benefi ts of NACo membership. been central in developing regional www.ci.vancouver.wa.us/parks-recreation/parks_trails/planning/ Goldschmidt is membership/marketing director; Arnold is deputy emergency services. Jefferson County, parkplan.htm legislative director; Byers is research director; and Sawyer is director, Wash. uses an interlocal agreement NACo Financial Services Corp. to manage access to an emergency • San Antonio/Bexar County, Tx. Goldschmidt will also exhibit at the Association of Indiana Coun- communications dispatch center for www.bizjournals.com/sanantonio/stories/2008/08/25/daily5.html ties Annual Conference in Switzerland County, Ind. Sept. 22–24 on local public safety, fi re and emergency www.sanantonio.gov/integration/pdf/PreliminaryReportSummary.pdf behalf of NACo membership recruitment and retention. medical providers within Jefferson • Jefferson County, Wash. County. The initiative, named “Jef- www.jeffcom911.org/Interlocal.htm (On the Move was compiled by Matthew Fellows.) fcom,” uses an allocation formula • CCountyountyNNewsews September 15, 2008 11 The H.R. Doctor Is In What’s The Inner Receptionist in a Who is often the very fi rst human being directly encountered at your Seal? offi ce? No, it is not the armed police offi cer or security guard, although increasingly it might be. It is the »San Diego County, Calif. receptionist. www.sdcounty.ca.gov This person is the direct agent of The fi rst seal of the county of San Diego was originally designed your organization and your direct in 1933 by Sidney Jenkins, a student at Grossmont Union High representative. This is the person School. However, in 1937 the county adopted a new seal that is still who must be knowledgeable in used today. order to provide help, advice and The offi cial seal of the county of San Diego was adopted by the directions to people. She or he Board of Supervisors as a result of the construction of the Civic Center, must be able to engage with the known today as the County Administration Center. The seal was person standing in front of them designed by architect Samuel Hamill as a plaque to adorn the Civic or on the other side of the counter Center. On Feb. 11, 1937 the Board of Supervisors approved the design while talking on the phone, fi ling of the plaque and adopted the design as the offi cial county seal. paper, monitoring events on the The seal encompasses many different elements, representing the computer screen and dealing with diversity of San Diego County. In the center of the seal is a fasces, a two or three other people hover- symbolic rod that dates back to use in ancient Rome. At the time the ing in the background, including Photo courtesy of the H.R. Doctor Board adopted the seal, the fasces was described as representing the possibly you. Doris Thomas (l) and Bernice Becher are receptionists who work for the motto, “In union there is strength,” because the axe is surrounded For many visitors to the Human city of Miramar, Fla., which is in Broward County. by a bundle of sticks, carrying the thought that the “people though Resources Department, or to almost individually weak are, collectively, strong.” all other organizational offices, best trained, should be the highest of the duties already described in Besides the fasces, there are fi ve major elements in the seal. First, including building and permitting, visibility representatives of the top this article. In that sense, every one in the bottom left, there is a faint depiction of a dolphin that stands a hospital or medical offi ce, the executives, including elected and of us is a receptionist. We project for the county’s reliance on the waterfront as a major industry. To the behavior and the demeanor of the appointed offi cials in government. to others, including our family right of the dolphin is a cornucopia, representing “the bounties we receptionist is a metaphor for the Being assigned to receptionist members as well as coworkers, by receive from old mother earth.” entire orientation of the organiza- duties should not invoke a feeling our behavior and attitudes a sense On the upper left, the seal holds a view of San Diego Harbor with tion. A rude receptionist who never of despair and lost opportunity, of representing ourselves. The a clipper ship and an airplane. The clipper ship recalls San Diego’s makes eye contact, is busy trimming but rather a lottery win for gain- behavior of a bully, of a bigot or of historic background of the sea and the “modern clipper of the air his nails, or chatting about dinner ing valuable experience of a very another type of human with low looks into the glorious future.” plans with another employee while diverse nature in a short time. As emotional intelligence is a direct On the upper right there is a back country scene of Palomar Moun- the client is waiting and waiting. He refl ection of how we will behave at tain crowned with the giant 200-foot telescope, a world renowned or she conveys a negative message other points in life, especially during achievement in science at the time. The Board stated that the “ultimate — and a lack of focus, caring or times of stress. Conversely, when we achievement is not in the telescope itself, but rather is the new era respect for clients. Something serious is lost project to others a sense of calm, of astronomical exploration to be ushered in. San Diego stands on A message is also carried in a very assertive respect and knowledge, when an organization does the threshold of scientifi c history.” positive way by the smart attentive we deliver a message of positive role not regard the receptionist Finally, in the center, behind the fasces, is a depiction of the fl ag of receptionist who, with a smile on modeling. function among its very the United States. The architect sought to encompass the presence of her face or a smile in his voice on Our Inner Receptionist is our most critical roles. the federal government in the many military installations throughout the phone expertly represents the number one anomaly detector. In San Diego County. organization. This behavior creates a shopping mall parking lot, late at Circling the seal is the county’s motto, a quote by the ancient the “wow experience” missing from night, when someone comes up to Roman poet, Virgil, “The noblest motive is the public good.” The many business encounters. It can a leader you have a duty to create us and asks if we know the time, our quote was chosen by the Building Committee as the motto to adorn do a great amount of good for the the atmosphere of appreciation Inner Receptionist can sense danger the Civic Center building. agency and for coworkers. and recognition of the value of the or a person in need of help. At work, At the bottom of the seal is the date the county was founded, How do you want to be repre- receptionist’s function. the anomalies of dealing with a col- inscribed as MDCCCLI, or 1851. San Diego County was one of sented? Why is it that in many agen- One of the critical but underval- league in distress or a person acting the fi rst counties in California. It is interesting to note that a seal cies the most dreaded assignment in ued roles of the receptionist is to be out is something fi rst observed by designed more than 70 years ago continues to solidly represent the an organization is the front counter the early warning system for the our own Inner Receptionist. Do we diversity of San Diego County today. receptionist? Why is it that often presence of an anomaly. An irate ignore that receptionist panic alarm employees can’t wait for turnover so customer, a threatening or bullying or do we respond to it? (If you would like your county’s seal featured, please contact Chris Johnson the newest clerical employee — the employee, a whiner. Behavior re- The more arrogant we are person- at 202/942-4256 or [email protected].) least senior one — can be stuck with fl ecting acute sadness or depression ally, the less likely we are to respond exile to the Siberian Wilderness of is likely to surface right across the to anomalies with the result that we the front receptionist area? That counter from the receptionist before are more likely to suffer negative way, the more senior employee can appearing elsewhere. consequences or miss great oppor- County News invites move to a more comfortable and Training in the recognition of tunities. The “real” front counter less engaging back offi ce location anomalies and the proper proce- receptionist in our offi ce and the LLettersetters closer to the coffee pot and the dures to deal with them safely, Inner Receptionist inside each of break room. rapidly and respectfully is part of us, both desire to be appreciated and ttoo tthehe EEditorditor Something serious is lost when every receptionist’s duty even if celebrated. Pay attention to both. Do you have a compli ment, complaint or diff erent point of view? ... an organization does not regard the organization is foolish enough LET US KNOW. the receptionist function among its to never provide training for them. Please in clude a phone num ber with your letter. Mail, fax or very most critical roles. The best Inside each one of us, whether e-mail to: Coun ty News, NACo, 25 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., employee should be the receptionist. we recognize it or not, is also an Phil Rosenberg Wash ing ton, DC 20001; 202/393-2630; [email protected]. The most knowledgeable and the “Inner Receptionist” who fulfi ls all The HR Doctor • www.hrdr.net 12 September 15, 2008 CCountyountyNNewsews •

Counties in Pictures Photo Contest A picture is still worth a thousand words, even in the age of digital photography. Share the moments when your county was at its fi nest through the 2008 Counties in Pictures Photo Contest. County News is now accepting submissions!

You’ll be able to vote for your favorite photos online in the NACo members-only Web site this fall. Finalists will be featured in a special spread in County News. Twelve exceptional pictures will be selected by NACo staff to appear in a 2009 Calendar that will be available online for purchase.

Submission rules & guidelines: ■ Digital and printed media are acceptable as long as they ad- here to the following specifi cations: ■ Submissions become property of NACo / County News and may be used in NACo materials and publications. Digital Specifi cations: • Digital images must be in color and of quality resolution (at ■ Deadline for submissions is Sept. 30. Photos must have been least 1,500 x 1,000 pixels). taken after August 2007 to qualify. • They should be saved in jpeg format and be no larger than 3 MB in fi le size. ■ All submissions must include the following information: • Upload your digital images online at https://naco.sharefi le.com • name of photo or fi lename of digital photo Login Email: [email protected] / Password: ftpnaco • county and photo credit Save your image in the folders … “To NACo > Photo Contest.” • category and brief description • Remember to e-mail us the fi le name of your image and • contact phone number and/or e-mail complete submission information to [email protected]. Please don’t e-mail your images. ■ The subject of your photo must fall into one of these categories: • Public Works Printed Photo Specifi cations: • Special Programs / Community Outreach • Photos should be professionally printed or developed • Celebrations • No slides or negatives will be accepted • Emergency and First Response • Photos should be at least 5” x 7” in size (8” x 10” preferred) • Local Sights • Send all printed photos with complete submission informa- • Green Government tion to: National Association of Counties, Attn: Jack Hernan- dez, 25 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC Please keep number of submission between 1–3 per category. 20001. ■ Any questions about the photo contest and submission guide- lines should be directed to Jack Hernandez at 202/942-4250 or www.naco.org [email protected].