NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES n WASHINGTON, D.C. VOL. 44, NO. 24 n December 17, 2012 Board OKs budget, legislative priorities, conference sites

By Tom Goodman consideration for all three levels of PUBLIC AFFAIRS DIRECTOR government. At the federal level, 70 percent of the cuts recommended NACo’s Board of Directors by the Simpson-Bowles panel have adopted a $15.8 million budget been enacted. “We’ve already felt for 2013, seven key legislative the pain,” Chase said. priorities and approved three future At the state level, NACo needs sites for the Annual Conference at to be aware of trends, he said, their fall meeting, held this year in especially unfunded and under- Shelby County (Memphis), Tenn. funded mandates. It is also vitally Dec. 7–8. important that NACo understands NACo Executive Director Matt the factors facing counties, he said. Chase also gave a presentation Chase, who became executive on the state of the association director on Sept. 17, maintained and outlined the “One NACo that NACo has to work with a Strategic Blueprint.” Chase said the blueprint is being crafted with See BOARD page 10 Colo. counties face decisions, uncertainty after pot vote

By Charlie Ban Douglas County, south of Photo by Tom Goodman STAFF WRITER Denver, got out of the gate quickly During the fall Board of Directors meeting in Memphis, Tenn., NACo’s female leadership, joined by NACo following Election Day, having President Chris Rodgers, gathers round the Christmas tree for a holiday belles portrait. Amendment 64’s passage in Col- its first reading of an ordinance orado may have legalized marijuana banning marijuana cultivation and possession, use and cultivation, but retail sale. some counties aren’t inhaling. Under “It’s become one of the models the new law, counties can regulate for counties exercising local con- NACo joins Supreme Court brief commercial sales and cultivation. trol,” said county spokeswoman They may in fact, prohibit licensing Wendy Holmes, who added that in Medicaid preemption case for retail operations. Colorado Counties, Inc., the state’s association of counties, distributed By Lisa Soronen North Carolina’s statute allows recipient with a significant portion the ordinance to counties statewide. SLLC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR the state to recoup a set amount of of his or her tort settlement “We like to help other counties, and money from a Medicaid recipient’s “E.M.A.” is an unidentified CountyNews there are others who aren’t on board NACo signed onto an amicus tort settlement that doesn’t fully minor who was injured at birth. with this (legalization).” curiae brief filed by State and Lo- reimburse the state for its Medicaid Features The Board of Commissioners’ cal Legal Center (SLLC) in a U.S. costs and still leaves the Medicaid See MEDICAID page 8 Supreme Court case involving the See POT VOTE page 12 question of whether Medicaid preempts a state statute. Quick Takes The specific issue the court will decide in Delia v. E.M.A. is whether a North Carolina statute allowing NACo extends its best the state to recover one-third of a Reindeer Medicaid recipient’s settlement from wishes for a Happy Towns a personal injury lawsuit is preempted by Medicaid’s anti-lien provision. Holiday Season and a Blitzen, Ore. Donner, Fla. This case matters to counties be- Comet, Mont. Rudolph, S.D. cause in some states in some instances New Year filled with Cupid, Neb. Vixen, La. counties will pay for at least part of the Dasher, Ga. Medicaid costs of someone injured by the fault of another person. As the peace, joy and success! facts of Delia v. E.M.A illustrate, those accuracyproject.org costs can be substantial. 2 December 17, 2012 CountyNews • Affordable Care Act implementation moves to states

By Anita Cardwell or implement a partial expansion PROGRAM MANAGER such as expanding the program to State Decisions For Creating Health cover individuals only up to 100 While some por- Insurance Exchanges in 2014 (as of Dec.) percent instead of 133 percent of the tions of the Afford- federal poverty level and still receive CONTENT able Care Act (ACA) the enhanced federal match rate. Default to Federal Exchange Declared State-based Exchange may change Presi- The guidance stipulates that dent Obama’s re-election means the Planning for Partnership Exchange Undecided states will not be able to receive the health reform law does not face a full 100 percent match rate for a partial repeal in the coming years. expansion, although HHS will However, there are a number consider and provide the regular of important decisions at the state match rate for demonstration project level that will significantly affect the proposals from states that include a ACA’s implementation and have partial expansion of the program. important implications for counties Another factor at play in state in terms of their local health care decision-making involves Medicaid delivery systems. disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments. Between 2014 Medicaid Expansion and 2019, the ACA will cut $14 bil- As originally outlined in the lion from DSH payments that help ACA, Medicaid would be expanded hospitals offset the costs associated in 2014 to cover all individuals with providing care to uninsured up to 133 percent of the federal individuals. These cuts were ex- poverty level (FPL). To cover the pected to be offset to some degree costs associated with the expansion, by expanded Medicaid coverage for for the first three years the federal previously uninsured people. But government would provide 100 now that some states may choose percent of the funding, phasing not to expand Medicaid, the DSH down to 90 percent in 2020 and all Source of data: Kaiser Family Foundation Health cuts will have an even greater impact Reform Source • healthreform.kff.org subsequent years. in these states because there will be However, earlier this year the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the While the high federal match rate publication — had not yet made a be moderate and some states could See ACA page 7 expansion was unconstitutionally is intended to serve as an incentive decision, and there is no deadline even experience net savings by doing coercive because the ACA stipulated for states to expand Medicaid, and for them to do so. The U.S. Depart- so because of the high federal match that if a state chose not to expand as of now 13 states and the District ment of Health and Human Services rate and fewer costs associated with Medicaid, the federal government of Columbia plan to do so, currently (HHS) has indicated that states that providing uncompensated care for could withhold all existing federal eight states — Alabama, Georgia, decide to expand Medicaid would be uninsured individuals. President | Chris Rodgers Medicaid funds. Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, able to change course and opt out of Some states are also concerned Publisher | Matthew Chase Public Affairs Director | Tom Goodman With the ruling effectively mean- Oklahoma, South Carolina and the expansion at a later date. that the federal match rate for the Executive Editor | Beverly Anne Schlotterbeck ing that the federal government Texas — have indicated that they A number of governors have expansion population may be reduced Senior Staff Writer | Charles Taylor cannot require states to expand do not intend to implement the expressed concern about the costs at some point, either because the Staff Writer | Charlie Ban Graphic Artist | Jack Hernandez Medicaid, states are now in the expansion, and six others are leaning associated with implementing the federal government may require states Editorial Assistant | Christopher Johnson process of determining whether they toward not expanding. Medicaid expansion. These costs to pay more of the cost in the future will implement the expansion. Many states — 23 at the time of are predicted to vary across states or because the rate may be cut as part ADVERTISING STAFF depending on the number of unin- of an entitlement-reform package in Job Market/Classifieds representative Christopher Johnson sured individuals and current levels a larger deficit-reduction deal. National Accounts representative of coverage. A recent analysis by On Dec. 10, HHS issued guid- Beverly Schlotterbeck 2013 Achievement Award the Kaiser Family Foundation and ance that some states had indicated (202) 393-6226 • FAX (202) 393-2630 Published biweekly except August by: the Urban Institute found that as a they were waiting for: specifically, National Association of Counties applications available online whole, state costs associated with whether they might be able to gradu- Research Foundation, Inc. implementing the expansion would ally phase in the Medicaid expansion 25 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. Applications for the 2013 Award Application Overview, STE. 500, Washington, D.C. 20001 Achievement Award program Frequently Asked Questions, video (202) 393-6226 | FAX (202) 393-2630 E-mail | [email protected] are now available online. The tutorial, and electronic applications Online address | www.countynews.org awards recognize innovative and are available on the NACo website In Case You Missed It state-of-the-art county government at http://www.naco.org/achievemen- The appearance of paid advertisements in County News News to use from past County News in no way implies support or endorsement by the Na- programs. Last year, the program tawards. tional Association of Counties for any of the products, honored more than 400 county All application materials, in- services or messages advertised. Periodicals postage paid at Washington D.C. and other offices. programs from 99 counties in 30 cluding application fees, must be »»‘Smart Justice’ theme announced for 2013 NCGM Mail subscriptions are $100 per year for non-members. states. submitted by Feb. 21, 2013, 11:59 NACo President Chris Rodgers recently announced that the April $60 per year for non-members purchasing multiple cop- 2013 theme for National County Government Month (NCGM) will ies. Educational institution rate, $50 per year. Member Also last year, the Achievement p.m. EST. Questions about the county supplemental subscriptions are $20 each. Send Award application process moved program can be directed to Katie be “Smart Justice: Creating Safer Communities.” payment with order and address changes to NACo, 25 to an all-electronic format. The Bess, [email protected], 202.942.4215. The NCGM planning booklet and media resources kit will be Massachusetts Ave. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001. online format will continue this The annual Achievement available by the end of January. POSTMASTER: send address changes to For more information, contact Jim Philipps at jphilipps@naco. County News, 25 Massachusetts Ave. N.W., year. Applicants should submit each Awards program is non-competitive Ste. 500, Washington, D.C. 20001 program narrative and any supple- with each submission judged on its org or 202.942.4220. (USPS 704-620) n (ISSN: 0744-9798) mental materials through the online own merits, based on the criteria © National Association of Counties application system on the NACo outlined in the 2013 application Research Foundation, Inc. website. This process eliminates overview. The program provides a Keep up with NACo online ... the time and costs associated with way for counties to recognize not mailing application materials. only innovative programs, but also To guide applicants through the dedicated employees who make www.naco.org the process, the 2013 Achievement these programs successful. • CountyNews December 17, 2012 3 EPA readies proposed regulations for release

By Julie Ufner for a final rule. While EPA was proposed reconsidering emissions days, reviews can take longer. The particulate matter and carbon mon- ASSOCIATE LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR expected to finalize the standards standards for new boilers and rule is still pending. oxide (CO) from boilers. The boiler by Dec. 14, an OMB review can commercial and industrial solid The Boiler Maximum Achiev- rule had a significant impact on Prior to the elec- take up to 90 days. waste incinerators, and submitted able Control Technology (MACT) local governments that use boil- tion, the Environ- the final rule to the OMB on May rule, as originally proposed in early ers or process heaters to produce CONTENT mental Protection Boiler MACT 17, 2012. While OMB’s review 2011, set up a tight timetable to Agency drafted a On Dec. 2, 2011, the EPA process generally is capped at 90 reduce emissions such as mercury, See EPA REGS page 9 number of regulations that could change the regulatory landscape for counties. Among these are several air and water quality regulations. Following are select highlights of the pending regulations.

Particulate Matter (PM) Standards On June 29, the EPA proposed revising the PM-2.5 standard from 15 micrograms per cubic meter to 12 – 13 micrograms per cubic meter. However, EPA also announced it would not change air quality stan- dards for PM-10. EPA designates two types of regulated PM — inhalable coarse particles (aka PM-10) and fine particles (PM-2.5). PM-10 particles are larger than 2.5 micrometers but smaller than 10 micrometers in diameter. They can be found near roadways (paved and unpaved) and construction sites.

PM-2.5 particles are 2.5 mi- crometers or smaller in diameter. They can be found in smoke and haze from forest fires, automobiles, power plants and certain industries. Particles larger than 10 micrometers are not regulated. NACo was especially concerned about tighter regulation of par- ticulate matter standards because regulating PM-10 would include farm dust. Coarse dust particles are smaller than a human hair and typically come from crushing or grinding operations or dust from paved and unpaved roads. NACo supports EPA’s decision because increased regulation would have been burdensome to many counties, especially those in rural areas. EPA states that PM particles, especially those smaller than 10 micrometers, can cause health problems. Many studies have linked particle pollution to premature death, nonfatal heart attacks, irregu- lar heartbeat, asthma and decreased lung function. NACo and its members expressed concerns to EPA and Congress over the past several years about the potential for increased regulation to negatively affect regular activities such as cars driving down dirt roads and agricultural practices that sustain local economies. Even natural events such as wildfires or wind storms can contribute to PM levels. On Dec. 4, EPA sent the final rule to the White House’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) 4 December 17, 2012 CountyNews • Large Urban County Caucus selects 2013 priorities

By Dalen A. Harris bonds that provide critical funding meeting, they toured DeKalb ASSOCIATE LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR for infrastructure and development County’s Renewable����������������������� Energy Facil- • Support legislative initiatives ity and Compressed Natural Gas NACo’s Large Urban County that permit the collection of sales (CNG) Fueling Station. Situated Caucus (LUCC) leaders recently and use taxes from remote sellers at the county’s Seminole Road met in Fulton County, Ga. for the LARGE URBAN COUNTY CAUCUS • Oppose any efforts that would Landfill, the Renewable Energy caucus’ annual planning meeting LUCC preferentially treat any industry seek- Facility and CNG Fueling Station where they deliberated about the ally qualified health centers and Housing and Urban Developments’ ing to create its own special immunity began operations this year and are a emerging legislative issues that county health centers, and (HUD) Community Development from state and local taxation, and model for green projects that can be will impact metropolitan counties • Support efforts to promote Block Grant (CDBG) Program and • Repeal unfunded mandates replicated in other urban counties in 2013. wellness, and prevent chronic HOME Investment Partnerships and oppose efforts to preempt the across the United States. Hosted by Fulton County disease. Program (HOME) and the Depart- authority of local governments. At the site, CNG is created from Chairman John Eaves, the LUCC ment of Health and Human Services’ LUCC members will monitor landfill gas and is dispensed to con- leadership convened for three days Support Key Federal (HHS) Community Services Block legislative and regulatory activi- sumers on site. Any excess is piped and selected four key themes as Investments in Programs Grant (CSBG) and Temporary As- ties in each of these focus areas, back into the natural gas pipeline. legislative priorities for 2013. that Promote Local Job sistance for Needy Families (TANF) facilitate discussions with relevant The project is the environmental The theme areas are: Creation and Economic program stakeholders and advocate on these equivalent of taking 30,000 cars off Growth • Ensure adequate and equitable pressing urban focus areas. Joining the road every year and will reduce Protect the Federal-State- • Increase planning funds for funding for water infrastructure and LUCC members in their advocacy carbon dioxide emissions by 17,000 Local Partnership for Metropolitan Planning Organiza- local election systems efforts will be key strategic partners tons, or what is released into the Health tions (MPO) and invest in programs • Support green government and such as the U.S. Conference of atmosphere from 17 million gallons • Oppose cuts, caps, block grants that reduce congestion in metropoli- alternative energy initiatives Mayors, the White House, the of gasoline. or any other measure that would tan regions • Mitigate the negative impacts U.S. House of Representatives’ All NACo members are encour- further shift federal and state Med- • Reduce poverty, revitalize of the nation’s foreclosure and Congressional Urban Caucus and aged to visit the LUCC website, icaid costs to counties communities and empower families unemployment crisis others. www.naco.org/urbancounties, where • Ensure parity between feder- by investing in the Department of • Support efforts to combat the Twenty-seven elected county regular updates on metropolitan sexual exploitation of children, child officials representing metropolitan legislative priorities, initiatives, abuse and neglect, and centers from 16 states met Nov. events and other activities will be • Support programs that enhance 28–30. In conjunction with their posted throughout the year. Profiles job creation, and economic develop- ment in our communities. in Service Invest In Evidence-based HUD expands assistance Practices and Initiatives to Katie S. “Kay” Cashion Enhance Local Justice and » Public Safety Systems and for displaced Sandy victims NACo Board Member Improve Accountability Commissioner Invest in strategies to enhance By Daria Daniel in presidentially declared disaster Guilford County, N.C. • public safety, reduce recidivism, sup- ASSOCIATE LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR areas, housing agencies can request port innovation and evidence-based a waiver to temporarily establish a Years affiliated with NACo:eight initiatives, technical assistance, To expand housing options for payment standard up to 120 percent Years in public service: nine training, personnel, equipment, families displaced by Superstorm of the current FMR. Occupation: business owner, interior decorator and reforms to federal, state and Sandy, the U.S. Department Hous- Families would continue to pay local criminal justice systems by ing and Urban Development (HUD) their required portion of the rent, typi- Education: University of North Carolina at Greensboro providing sustained funding to the is giving public housing agencies cally 30 percent of adjusted monthly Three people (living or dead) I’d invite to dinner: Hillary Clinton, Department of Justice’s Edward greater flexibility in calculating rent income, but because of the increase in Thomas Jefferson and Elizabeth Cady Stanton Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance payments in areas experiencing in- the maximum subsidy available, the A dream I have is to: make a difference at every opportunity and Grant (JAG) Program, Mentally creased demand for rental housing. measure would allow displaced fami- develop a Guilford County Family Crisis Center. Ill Offender and Crime Reduction HUD is allowing local housing lies to afford housing they would not You’d be surprised to learn that I: have owned and operated a Act, Second Chance Act, Drug agencies to increase a payment normally be able to under the regular furniture and decorating business since 1970. Court and Problem Solving Court standard up to 120 percent of the payment standard, thereby increasing The most adventurous thing I’ve ever done is: explored uninhabited Initiatives published Fair Market Rent (FMR), the available supply of housing that cays (small islands) in the Bahamas via a dinghy realizing my swim- • Restore federal entitlement giving low-income families more these families could afford. ming skills were limited to a small pool. health benefits and VA benefits options to find available housing The measure also prevents the before conviction in tight rental markets. displacement of HUD-assisted My favorite way to relax is: hot chocolate, roaring fire and easy music. • Enact comprehensive immigra- “We understand that in the wake families where rents may be increas- I’m most proud of: as a commissioner: 1) initiating and chairing a tion reform of a disaster like Sandy, available ing significantly as the result of the yearlong study of adolescent substance abuse in Guilford County • Provide support for returning rental housing becomes increas- loss of rental housing stock in the resulting in a Juvenile Drug Court, and 2) initiating and chairing a veterans ingly difficult to find, especially disaster areas. Guilford County Citizen Academy in 2011 and 2012 “opening the • Improve resilience to cyber inci- for lower-income families,” said HUD and other federal agen- doors of County Government” dents and reduce the cyber threat, and HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan, cies are helping displaced families Every morning I read: the local newspaper. • Strengthen emergency pre- who President Obama recently find alternative housing while My favorite meal is: my pot roast. paredness, prevention, response and appointed to oversee long-term re- their homes are repaired. FEMA’s My pet peeve is: procrastination. recovery. development in the disaster region. Housing Portal consolidates rental My motto is: a “Can-do Attitude.” Local housing agencies use resources from HUD, the Depart- Improve Government HUD’s annual FMR to determine ment of Agriculture, the Depart- The last book I read was: “Does the Noise in My Head Bother Operations and Support how much rental subsidy low- ment of Veterans Affairs, private You?” by Steven Tyler. Efforts to Protect County income families are eligible for organizations and the public to My favorite movie is: Gone with the Wind. Revenue through HUD’s Housing Choice help families and individuals locate My favorite music is: beach and anything danceable. • Support the preservation of Voucher Program. Currently, rental units in their area. My favorite president is: Bill Clinton. the federal deductibility of local housing agencies are allowed to For more information, contact property and income taxes and set this payment standard up to 110 Daria Daniel at 202.942.4212 or the tax-exempt status of municipal percent of an area’s FMR. However, [email protected]. • CountyNews December 17, 2012 5 6 December 17, 2012 CountyNews • Applications now open for 2013 5-Star grants

By Coleman Davis to improve water quality, increase Alabama, the Florida Panhandle and COUNTY SOLUTIONS AND INNOVATION INTERN access, and restore riparian and southeast Mississippi. forest habitat in urban watersheds Approximately $160,000 is avail- Applications are now available throughout the United States. able from the U.S. Environmental for the 2013 round of Five Star-Ur- Additional funds will be avail- Protection Agency (EPA) and cor- ban Waters Restoration grants. The able for Five Star-Urban Waters porate partners to fund projects that Five Star Program provides modest projects via FedEx and Southern meet Five Star program elements. financial assistance on a competitive Company. FedEx will provide fund- Five Star-Urban Waters projects basis to support community-based ing for projects in 19 metropolitan must include on-the-ground wetland, wetland, riparian and coastal habitat areas including Boston, Los Angeles, riparian, in-stream or coastal habitat restoration projects. San Francisco-Oakland, Chicago, restoration. Projects must also inte- These projects rely on diverse Memphis, Seattle, Dallas, Newark, grate meaningful education into the partnerships to foster local natural Washington, D.C., Indianapo- restoration project either through resource stewardship through lis, Pittsburgh, Miami, Colorado community outreach, participation education, outreach and training Springs, Philadelphia, Harrison, or integration with K-12 environ- activities. Grant awards range Ark., Phoenix, Cleveland, Atlanta mental curriculum. Because public from $20,000 to $50,000, with an and Portland, Ore. participation in restoration projects average grant ranging from $25,000 Though these are listed by city, is paramount in community-based to $35,000. funds are also available for county restoration, project sites should be New for 2013 is dedicated fund- projects serving these metropolitan accessible to the community. ing for urban areas. Approximately Photo courtesy of Dave Butler areas. Southern Company will For competitive applications, $540,000 is available from a number DeKalb County, Ga., a 2008 Five Star grantee, restored wetlands and provide additional funding for proj- project partners should represent of federal agencies through the stream banks at the Evans Mill historic site. The project supported new ects located within the company’s Federal Urban Waters Partnership signage and educational activities for park visitors. service area, which includes Georgia, See 5 STAR page 11 Healthy Shelby transforms health care in county

By Mayor Mark H. Luttrell Jr. We’ve done just that with the who have tragically lost babies to SHELBY COUNTY, TENN. Healthy Shelby initiative. The promote good health for women of NACo Forum to examine health SPECIAL TO COUNTY NEWS chief executive officers of our four childbearing age and to overcome major hospitals and the Church barriers to prenatal care for pregnant care policy and delivery As Shelby County mayor, one Health Center, a nationally known women. of my primary duties is to address clinic to assist our citizens without This initiative, which is in- NACo’s 2012 Healthy Counties Forum, “County public health issues. That’s done insurance, are the foundation of tended to generate regional, system- Challenges and Opportunities in a Changing Health daily through the good work of our the initiative. changing improvements, will cost CONTENT System,” held in Georgia’s DeKalb and Fulton coun- Shelby County Health Department. They, and a broad, multi-sector $250,000 over the next two years. ties examined a broad range of health care policy and That work is vital, but we also need group of executives, are working That money will come from hospi- delivery system changes. Attendees heard firsthand about how Grady a more strategic approach. side-by-side with my county public tals, private businesses and govern- Memorial Hospital has dealt with its dual role as both a safety net We recently announced the health leadership team to accomplish ment. Shelby County is contributing provider and a leader in high-quality care. Through a tour and a panel “Healthy Shelby” initiative, which three primary things: $25,000 each year. discussion with hospital leaders, attendees learned how the hospital is a new alliance to improve the • better management of chronic What’s unique about Healthy is implementing new planning measures to address potential future health of citizens in our community diseases — such as hypertension Shelby and makes Shelby County care delivery and financing challenges. and, at the same time, lower health and diabetes a model for how to improve health This year’s forum, Nov. 27–28, was the second one held in con- care costs. Healthy Shelby is part • better coordination of care — and health care in the United States, junction with NACo’s Healthy Counties Initiative, which focuses on of “Memphis Fast Forward,” an focusing initially on improved plan- is that we are implementing these promoting public-private partnerships to help counties address local ongoing alliance of business and ning for those at the end of life, and innovative approaches with the health issues and challenges. Commissioner Roy Brooks, Tarrant community agencies here in Shelby • better birth outcomes — to help collaboration of not one, but four County, Texas, chairs the initiative’s advisory board. County. It has adopted a model used prevent infant mortality. large, otherwise competing, hospital In addition to presentations from the Centers for Disease Control across the nation by the renowned These three domains of our initial systems and the other public health and Prevention, and discussion concerning broad health policy changes Institute of Healthcare Improvement efforts point to the interrelationship and social service assets of Shelby such as the county-level implications of the Affordable Care Act’s called the Triple Aim. That focuses of what people think, how they live, County. Medicaid expansion, forum attendees also rotated through many on three objectives: and whether — and at what cost — Equally unique is the active small group roundtable discussions led by a number of the Healthy • improve the health of our popu- they need health care. For example, endorsement and advocacy of Counties Initiative corporate partners. lation — including keeping people we are exploring how to effectively the business community for this The roundtable discussions and demonstrations covered a wide healthy in the first place use trusted intermediaries to get health initiative. Notably, because range of health topics, such as how counties can increase access to • transform how people access hard-to-reach persons into care for other CEOs have been so involved, high-quality care, provide cost-effective and comprehensive senior and experience health care, and hypertension knowing that without Healthy Shelby has provided me health care services, make better use of health data, and coordinate • allow our health care dollars to proper treatment, their quality of with an opportunity to give leader- and enhance local wellness initiatives. be better spent, actually decreasing life and cost of care from end-stage ship to the county’s peer employers Approximately 50 county officials and staff from 20 counties, as the cost of care heart disease will be tremendously in implementing health-promoting well as representatives from three state associations of counties and We have a challenging task before impacted. initiatives in the workplace, such as the private sector, attended the forum. us. However, it is certainly worthy of We are testing approaches to the healthy vending policies which I *See this story at www.naco.org/countynews for more information on the our efforts to improve not only the help persons develop and follow recently implemented in all county Healthy Counties Forum. quality of life for our citizens but Advanced Care Plans, which will buildings. also the efficiency of our health care help family members avoid strug- Kenneth S. Robinson, M.D., facilities and social agencies. gling through difficult and often my public health policy advisor, is needs of citizens. Shelby County. CEO Renee Frazier To effectively bring about change, costly decisions involving prolonged chairing the Healthy Shelby initia- Healthy Shelby is being ad- is providing oversight and will assist it takes collaboration. I’ve always hospitalization and embrace more tive. He’s a former commissioner ministered and managed by The us with monitoring our progress. been a proponent of involving others, comfortable and appropriate care of health for the state of Tennessee Healthy Memphis Common Table, We’re confident Healthy Shelby especially those who have expertise alternatives. Finally, we are learning and a pastor, which keeps him the Regional Health and Healthcare will advance the quality of life for in specific fields. how to apply lessons from women connected personally to the health Improvement Collaborative in citizens in our community. • CountyNews December 17, 2012 7 20 states opt for federally run health insurance exchanges

ACA from page 2 them purchase qualified health SpeedRead »»» of Nov. 16 for them to submit a part of a comprehensive deficit- plan coverage. Currently, the FPL blueprint plan of their exchange reduction agreement. more individuals without coverage range for a family of four would be to HHS. But recently, because a In October, the National Gov- and so more costs associated with a household income of $23,050 – » In 2014, Medicaid would number of states indicated they ernors Association developed a uncompensated care. $92,150 per year. expand to cover all individuals would like more time to decide new website that outlines potential Pressure from hospital groups In those states that choose not up to 133 percent of the federal whether they will run their own solutions to state health policy chal- and other health providers that to operate their exchange it will be poverty level exchanges, the administration lenges. To view the site, visit http:// have concerns regarding the DSH federally run, but in states opting » Governors express concern delayed the deadline to Dec. 14, statepolicyoptions.nga.org. reductions has the potential to affect to run their exchange they can about the costs associated and until Feb. 15, 2013 for states state decision-making regarding the do so fully on their own or oper- with implementing Medicaid opting to implement a federal-state Other Selected Provisions Medicaid expansion. Also, some ate their exchange in partnership expansion partnership exchange. for 2014 policy analysts are predicting that with the federal government. In Regardless of the additional • Requirement for all U.S. some states that initially choose to the partnership model, states will time given to states, deadlines for citizens and legal residents to have not implement the expansion will perform certain functions of the states are currently planning for a making the exchanges ready to qualifying health insurance cover- opt to do so at a later date. exchange — for example a state may federal-state partnership exchange, enroll individuals in coverage are age or face a tax penalty, with a few choose to operate functions related and the remaining eight states were quickly approaching. exceptions for certain individuals; Health Insurance to health plan management or con- undecided at the time of publication. The ACA requires them to be • employers with 50 or more Exchanges sumer assistance or both, while the For those states opting for the prepared to begin enrollment on employees that do not offer mini- States are also in varying stages federal government would operate federally run exchange, HHS has Oct. 1, 2013 and to be fully opera- mum essential coverage to their of decision making in terms of the remaining functions associated indicated they are on track to having tional on Jan. 1, 2014. Even states employees will be penalized if one the health insurance exchanges with the exchange such as website them ready, although so far they have that plan to operate a state-based of their full-time employees receives scheduled to be implemented in maintenance or data collection. released few details about how they exchange and have already made a a premium tax credit through the 2014 through the ACA, which will States that elect to implement the would operate. While the federal number of policy and operational exchange; and perform eligibility determinations for federal-state partnership exchange government will retain primary decisions face challenges to meet • reductions in Medicaid Dispro- health coverage and allow individu- model will have the option to transi- responsibility for operating these these requirements. portionate Share Hospital payments als to enroll in qualified health plans tion to a fully state-based exchange exchanges, it will aim to coordinate Also, similar to the federal match begin in FY14 with a $500 million or Medicaid. ACA requires most at a later date. with states on issues such as plan rate for the Medicaid expansion reduction. Americans to carry health insurance. As of Dec. 10, 20 states had certification, oversight functions, population, the premium credit For additional information Federal subsidies based on a slid- indicated they are opting to have the and consumer assistance and subsidies that will be available to and resources, visit www.naco.org/ ing income scale will be provided to federal government run the exchange outreach. individuals to assist them with the healthreformimplement. individuals with incomes between in their state, and another 17 and For states choosing to run their purchase of coverage may be viewed 100 percent to 400 percent of the the District of Columbia plan to own exchanges, the Obama admin- by federal policymakers as another *See this story at www.naco.org/ federal poverty level (FPL) to help operate their own exchanges. Five istration set an original deadline place for spending reductions as countynews for more online content. 8 December 17, 2012 CountyNews • Cuyahoga County to seed college savings accounts

By Charles Taylor been a lot of these projects across question was could we do something been advising Cuyahoga County, SENIOR STAFF WRITER the country. This is just taking it to that was going to get more kids on a Brar said — providing technical a greater scale than it ever has been college trajectory in the first place?” assistance. Cuyahoga Coun- before.” The initiative is similar the City “Ultimately, our goal is to help ty, Ohio is making a When fully implemented, and County of San Francisco’s other municipalities,” she said. CONTENT bold move to ensure Cuyahoga’s program is expected Kindergarten to College program, “We were the first ones to do this that more Cleveland- to cost about $2 million annually which launched in 2010 and has a universally, and whatever we’ve area kids can continue their educa- and will be paid for by a county current enrollment of nearly 8,000 learned we want to share our best tion after high school. higher education fund required by students. It deposits $50 in a college practices with those who want to County Executive Ed FitzGerald the county’s charter. It will be an savings account for every child replicate this.” Several states and recently launched the Cuyahoga opt-out program; parents who do entering kindergarten in a public municipalities across the U.S. have County College Savings Account not want their kids to participate school; children who receive free developed similar programs. Program. It will deposit $100 for can sign a waiver. The savings accounts can be used or reduced-price lunches get an Tivol said CFED’s phones are every child entering kindergarten The fund will only make dis- for any post-secondary education, additional $50. Incentive funds “ringing off the hook” with requests starting in fall 2013. Open to 15,000 bursements to qualified educational including vocational training, and to encourage families to make for advice and assistance. “We are public, private and parochial school institutions on a student’s behalf, two- and four-year colleges. If not contributions to the accounts have seeing major breakthroughs at the students, it will be the largest pro- not make payments directly to the claimed by an age deadline yet to been raised from the private sec- federal, state and local levels from gram of its kind in the nation. student. FitzGerald said it is open be established, the money will revert tor. “They’ve done a terrific job policymakers who are making “It’s a lot to take on, but we think to all kindergartners because “we to the fund pool. The county is also of carrying the work forward and pioneering investments in this area. that it’s a proven methodology. It’s didn’t want any stigma associated considering additional deposits at have become leaders in the field in “I think that government leaders not experimental, so we decided with it — that it was just for certain key educational milestones, such their own right,” said Leigh Tivol, with vision see children’s savings that weren’t going to do some tiny parts of town or certain people, or as graduation from elementary and CFED’s director of savings and as a way to fill in what has largely pilot project,” he said. “There’ve it was a poverty program.” middle school. FitzGerald said the financial security. been a missing piece of the higher county has been in “very serious Anee Brar is program manager education puzzle,” she said, “and to negotiations” with some of the for San Francisco’s Kindergarten to build savings early to help fill the National Association of Counties larger financial institutions in the College (KtoC) program. “If you gaps that financial aid just doesn’t Cleveland area who might pick up have college aspirations from the reach.” the program’s administrative costs first day of kindergarten, by the time and contribute to the accounts. you get to high school, it could be *For more information from CFED on “Cuyahoga County is position- pretty transformational,” she said. asset building for children, see this story ing itself as a national leader in KtoC program officials have online at www.naco.org/countynews. the rapidly growing field of asset building for children,” said Andrea Levere, president of the Corpora- 2013 tion for Enterprise Development Eight states cap Medicaid Achievement Awards (CFED), which helped the county develop its program and one in recovery from lawsuits San Francisco. CFED’s mission Your county’s programs and includes aiding families — through MEDICAID from page 1 The SLLC’s brief argues that the individuals making them savings and asset building — to Medicaid is a huge expense for states achieve goals such as buying a Her parents settled a medical mal- and that Medicaid grants states successful deserve national home, pursuing higher education practice claim for $2.8 million that substantial discretion in how they or starting a business. didn’t allocate separate amounts pursue recovery from those held recognition ... Students with savings accounts for medical expenses and other liable for damages. are four times more likely to attend damages. North Carolina, which The brief points out that North Applications are now being accepted online college than those without, and had paid more than $1.9 million Carolina’s statute encourages parties for NACo’s Achievement Award program, six times more likely if the savings in medical expenses on E.M.A.’s to allocate settlements and avoids account is in the student’s name, behalf, sought to recover one-third the state’s having to participate our annual non-competitive awards program according to recent research by the of the settlement. A state statute in burdensome settlement discus- which seeks to recognize innovative county Center for Social Development at allows North Carolina to recover the sions or post-settlement allocation Washington University in St. Louis. lesser of actual medical expenses or hearings. The brief also argues that government programs. Outstanding programs The County Council passed the one-third of a Medicaid recipient’s allowing Medicaid recipients to keep from each category may be selected for the measure on first reading; FitzGerald total tort settlement. two-thirds of their tort settlement is Best of Category Award. expects final approval by March or Medicaid prohibits states from reasonable and fair. NACo, along earlier. asserting liens against Medicaid re- with the other so-called Big Seven The college savings program cipients except for medical expenses state and local government associa- Visit www.naco.org/achievementawards addresses a growing need in the recovered from settlements. In 2006, tions, signed onto the SLLC’s brief for complete guidelines and to apply. Cleveland area and across the in Arkansas Department of Health and along with the Government Finance country, county officials said. For Human Services v. Ahlborn, the U.S. Officers Association and the City of the first time, students today are Supreme Court struck down an New York. less likely to complete college than Arkansas statute that allowed the At least eight states have statu- If you’re planning to enter, join the their parents; less than one in 10 state to recover all of the costs it paid tory caps on Medicaid recovery event on NACo’s Facebook page and low income students graduate from on behalf of a Medicaid recipient from lawsuits: Connecticut, Florida, share the news of the Achievement college by their mid 20s. regardless of whether that amount Georgia, Hawaii, Michigan, Min- “We’re‐ big believers in early exceeded the medical expenses nesota, Ohio and Iowa. Award opportunity with others! fb.com/NACoDC investment and this‐ is the earliest portion of a settlement. Oral argument will be heard investment you can really make for In Ahlborn, unlike this case, the Jan. 8, 2013. The Supreme Court higher education,” FitzGerald said. parties had allocated the settle- will issue an opinion in this case by “We could have taken $2 million a ment between medical expenses June 30, 2013. year and focused on kids that are and other damages. So in this case For more information, contact seniors in high school. ... You’re the Supreme Court must decide Deseree Gardner, NACo SLLC dealing at that point with a popu- whether and how Ahlborn applies Advisory Council representative: lation that is college bound. The to unallocated settlements. [email protected]; 202.942.4204. • CountyNews December 17, 2012 9 New EPA stormwater rule update expected June 2013

EPA REGS from page 3 EPA imposes a number of re- NACo also requested a more say that “immediate access roads” strictions that impact economic SpeedRead »»» detailed analysis on how the that are used exclusively or are electricity or heat. It would affect development. proposed changes will impact all primarily dedicated to the above boilers used in county buildings Ozone, a key component of » Ozone quality standards could CWA programs, beyond Section activities are regulated. However, that use natural gas, fuel oil, coal smog, is blamed for increased drop to 60 ppb–70 ppb 404, for federal, state and local “immediate access roads” do not or biomass. health care costs for bronchi- » Stormwater regulations tied to governments, and private parties, include public access roads that are However, under the reconsid- tis, acute asthma, hospital and Chesapeake Bay settlement as well as an analysis of the time federal, state or county manage- eration, EPA has said a majority emergency room visits, nonfatal needed and associated costs. ment roads. of boilers would not fall under heart attacks and premature This rule is in response to Decker the rules. Nearly 98 percent of deaths. Ozone is primarily cre- tions. EPA says the standard could Stormwater Runoff from v. Northwest Environmental Defense area-source boilers would rely on ated through emissions from cars, be applied strictly to development Logging Roads Center (NEDC), which is currently routine maintenance and tune-ups, power plants, industrial facilities sites nationwide (outside of exist- On Nov. 30, the EPA released being considered in the U.S. Su- while two percent of those would and electric utilities. Since both ing MS4s) or only those sites that its final rule on Revisions to Storm- preme Court for stormwater runoff need to meet emissions limits. On sunlight and hot weather pre- discharge to an MS4. water Regulations to clarify that from logging roads. In the final rule, major source boilers, 88 percent cipitate its formation, ozone is If the EPA goes with the first a NPDES permit is not required the EPA clarifies that logging roads would require periodic tune-ups primarily a summer pollutant. option, the permit requirements for Stormwater Discharges from do not require stormwater permits and 12 percent would be required Both urban and rural areas can rest with the developer during Logging Roads. and essentially overturns the 9th to meet emission standards. have high levels of ozone due to construction. After construction, For the purpose of assessing Circuit decision in Decker. airborne transport of pollutants the property would be required to whether stormwater discharges are It is likely this rule will be Ozone from hundreds of miles away. maintain the standards as laid out “associated with industrial activ- challenged in court over whether On Jan. 6, 2010, the EPA under the permit. ity,” the only facilities considered the EPA has the authority under proposed to tighten the national Stormwater Regulations Construction enforcement rests “industrial” are rock crushing, the Clean Water Act to exempt ambient air quality standards The EPA is working on crafting with the permit authority, which gravel washing, log sorting and stormwater runoff from logging (NAAQS) for ground-level ozone an updated version of its existing is generally the EPA or the state. log storage. The EPA goes on to roads as an industrial activity. to change the current primary stormwater rule by June 2013 with However, since some states have ozone standard of 75 parts per final action by December 2014. transferred oversight authority to billion (ppb) to a range of 60 This rule is tied to a settlement local governments, this may mean A NEW publication from NACo’s ppb–70 ppb. The EPA estimated agreement with the Chesapeake additional responsibilities for local Green Government Initiative ... the rule will cost $19 billion to $90 Bay Foundation on pollution in authorities. billion annually. But in September the Chesapeake Bay. The proposed Additionally, EPA is consid- 2011, after concerns over costs, rule may impact all Phase I, Phase ering other options: extend the the president told the EPA to II and non-regulated Municipal oversight of the current MS4 pro- withdraw the rule until 2013. In Separate Storm Sewer Systems gram; require large regulated local 2013, the current standard is slated (MS4). governments to manage discharges for review per the requirements of Currently, medium and large from existing sites, and designated the Clean Air Act. local governments with popula- government-owned maintenance Approximately 650 rural and tions of more than 100,000 hold yards as industrial sources. urban counties would have been MS4 permits, as do small MS4s in considered in non-attainment urbanized areas. Under the most Waters of the U.S. under the proposed standards. recent proposal, performance On Feb. 21, EPA and the Army Most of the responsibility for standards for discharges from new Corp of Engineers sent the final implementing the new standards development and redeveloped “waters of the U.S.” guidance to would fall on state and local gov- sites will be established. the OMB for review. The guidance Designed to assist local leaders in better ernments who are responsible for For new and redevelopment has yet to be finalized. understanding wind technology and developing air quality plans and sites, which include residential, The waters of the U.S. guid- share best practices for developing local implementing strategies to meet commercial, industrial and in- ance stems from an April 21, wind regulations. the new federally set goals. stitutional, EPA is considering 2011, proposal to expand federal  The different types of wind installations Additionally, when an area is a retention-based standard that jurisdiction over U.S. waters by and infrastructure requirements classified as in “non-attainment,” takes into account regional condi- modifying the existing waters of  Specific aspects of county government the U.S. definition in the Clean that impact wind development Water Act (CWA).  Strategies for effectively regulating wind This guidance has implica- development with Wind Ordinances tions for counties with public EPA sets new beach  Criteria for managing on-site, infrastructure such as roads, distributed, and utility-scale wind clean-up standards ditches, flood control channels and developments culverts. It also has implications  Opportunities to incorporate wind On Nov. 26, the EPA released new recreational water quality for other Clean Water Act (CWA) resources into a county Master Plan criteria (RWQC) for coastal and noncoastal waters used for swim- programs beyond the Section 404  ming, surfing and diving. The limits were last updated in 1986. permit program, the dredge and Model policies and case studies from counties across the nation The new RWQC sets new limits for E. coli and Enterococci fill permit program, to programs bacteria. States will use the new standards to set criteria for when such as the National Pollution beach clean-ups are needed and when public notifications must Discharge Elimination System be issued. (NPDES), Total Maximum Daily Find more publications Two sets of numerical standards are part of the RWQC, both Load (TMDL), state water qual- online at of which protect the designated public use of the water, and thus ity standards and constructed www.NACo.org. protect the public from exposure. Within the RWQC, magnitude, wetlands. duration and frequency are measured. In response to the draft guid- According to the EPA, these “recommendations are intended ance, NACo submitted a letter as a guidance to states, territories and authorized tribes in develop- requesting the EPA and Army ing water quality standards to protect swimmers from exposure to Corp of Engineers withdraw the water that contains organisms that indicated the presence of fecal Draft Guidance and instead move contamination.” forward through a formalized rule-making process. 10 December 17, 2012 CountyNews • L.A. County to host NACo Annual Conference in 2016

BOARD from page 1 a proposal to offer discount medi- cal services to county residents. sense of urgency, stay relevant, The proposal would either add the strengthen its research and be medical services and the Dental pro-active. “The status quo isn’t Discount Program to the exist- an option,” he said. “We have to ing Prescription Discount Card lead change.” Program or combine the medical He added NACo must know services with the dental program. politics and understand the process, The possible services include vision but to be successful it cannot just (eyeglasses), diabetic services, hear- focus on the White House and ing aids, lab imaging and others. Capitol Hill. It must engage the The Board heard a presenta- business community, the media tion by Paul Stebbins, executive and the public in telling the county chairman, World Fuel Services story, he said. Corporation, a Fortune 75 com- The building blocks for the pany and a member of the CEO future are advocacy, education, Council of the Campaign to Fix networking and research, he said, the Debt. Stebbins spoke about adding that NACo’s mission is “to the problems if the nation’s debt assist America’s counties in pursu- is not brought under control and ing excellence in public service.” the methods that could be used to NACo President Chris Rodgers, achieve debt control. in his President’s Report, provided Board members with copies of the Photos by Tom Goodman Polling Session book, “Who Moved My Cheese?” NACo President Chris Rodgers (second, right) discusses Board responses to a question about county corrections On the final day of the meeting, Rodgers encouraged Board mem- programs. Several panels discussed the results of a poll of the Board members, taken at their meeting, about Board members participated in bers to read the book because it the critical issues facing county governments nationwide. Other panelists included (l-r): Larry Long, County an electronic polling session and offers ideas for dealing with what Commissioners Association of Ohio; Commissioner Roy Brooks, Tarrant County, Texas; Carole Moehrle, Nez discussed national issues critical the country and counties are fac- Perce County, Idaho; Rodgers; and Eugene Smith, Dunn County, Wis. county manager. to counties and the country. The ing now. issues included the fiscal cliff, jobs • protect county revenue and sites include Los Angeles (Long of $214,000. The reasons he gave and economic development, health 2013 Legislative Priorities investment strategies Beach), Calif. in 2016; Franklin for this “healthy balance sheet” are: care, immigration, transportation The seven key legislative priorities • support revenue-sharing and County (Columbus), Ohio in 2017; • membership revenue up and the election process. chosen by the Board for 2013 are: payment in lieu of taxes programs, and Davidson County (Nashville), $167,000 Concerning the fiscal cliff, 62 • protect the federal-state-local and Tenn. in 2018. • deferred compensation pro- percent of the Board members said partnership for Medicaid • support rural development Dave Keen, NACo chief finan- gram revenue up $121,000 they felt President Obama and the • support key federal invest- initiatives and the Farm Bill. cial officer, said the budget reflects • higher attendance at the Republicans in Congress will reach ments in programs that promote overall savings with modest adjust- Western Interstate Region (WIR) an agreement to avert going over local job creation and economic Annual Conference Sites ments to reflect new and shifting Conference the cliff, while 30 percent said they growth The board also voted on future priorities. Three staff positions • Healthy Counties sponsor- did not think an agreement would • oppose unfunded mandates sites for NACo’s annual conference, have been eliminated, he said. ships up $40,000 be reached. • promote county priorities held during the summer each year. At the same time, there will be • LUCC and RAC sponsorships Sixty-eight percent of the mem- within immigration reform The approved future conference increased focus in research, grant up $33,000, and bers said that if the automatic cuts development, education and train- • savings from vacancies. and tax increases go into effect it ing, corporate member support, In addition, investments gained will have a major effect on their Federal debt ceiling also and Internet and social media. nearly 8 percent, he said. counties. In a panel discussion, Keen said the association is end- The Board also voted to give the a fiscal cliff issue ing 2012 with a projected surplus staff three more months to develop See BOARD page 11

The nation’s debt ceiling once again looms as the spark to con- gressional brinkmanship that could threaten the slowly recovering economy. The U.S. Department of Treasury has announced that the U.S. will probably hit its $16.4 trillion borrowing limit by the end of the year at the same time that Congress will be dealing with the auto- matic tax hikes and large government spending cuts scheduled to kick in Jan. 1, 2013. According to the Bipartisan Policy Center, the government could hit the limit as early as the final week this month. The Congressional Budget Office and most economists predict another recession in 2013 if the confluence of tax increases and spending cuts take place. Adding to the fiscal anxiety is the pos- sibility that skirting close to the debt limit could lead to a second downgrade of the U.S. credit rating. In mid-2011, a bitter standoff over the issue led to the first credit revision, which, according to the Government Accountability Office, cost taxpayers nearly $1.3 billion. The Treasury Department said that it could take “extraordinary measures” to juggle the nation’s finances to give Congress and the White House additional time to work on a debt-limit increase. But even with those steps, the government could face a possible default in early 2013. As of Dec. 14, the U.S. debt was $16.4 trillion. Supervisor Liz Kniss, Santa Clara County, Calif., makes a point during discussions about poll results. • CountyNews December 17, 2012 11 Board poll says entitlement reform a key issue for ‘Grand Bargain’

BOARD from page 10 federal tax deductions and closing loopholes (25 percent), and tax 2013 NACo Legislative Priorities Board members cited infrastruc- rate increases (21 percent). Board ture, community development, members did not support reducing and health and human services as the mortgage interest deduction, major concerns associated with the the deductibility of local property fiscal cliff. Thirty-two percent said taxes, or the tax-exempt status of it will have a minor effect. municipal bonds. The top three items that Board There were break-out sessions members felt should be included in following the polling discussions a “Grand Bargain” are entitlement to assess NACo programs and ser- reform (25 percent), reduction in vices and the issues facing counties.

Photo by Tom Goodman Members of the executive committee and staff review NACo 2013 policy priorities. Pictured are (l-r) Commissioner Joe Giles, Erie County, Pa.; Commissioner Joe Bryan, Wake County, N.C.; Commissioner Robert Cope, Lemhi County, Idaho; Immediate Past President Lenny Eliason; Second Vice President Riki Hokama; First Vice President Linda Langston; and (standing) Ed Rosado, NACo legislative affairs director.

At its fall meeting, NACo’s Board of Directors Promote County Priorities within adopted seven key legislative priorities that will Immigration Reform guide NACo’s overall advocacy efforts in the new NACo members oppose federal efforts that would 113th Congress. place the financial burden of immigration on the backs of counties without sufficient funds for health, Protect Federal-State-Local public safety and education services. We support Partnership for Medicaid comprehensive immigration reform that includes a NACo members support maintaining the federal- modernized legal immigration system, establishes Catching up with one another during a break at the Board of Directors state-local partnership structure for financing and a temporary worker program, provides an earned meeting: (l-r) NACo Immediate Past President Lenny Eliason, NACo Past delivering Medicaid services. We also oppose cuts, path to citizenship and enhances border security. President Glen Whitley and NACo Second Vice President Riki Hokama. caps, block grants or any other measures that would further shift federal and state Medicaid costs to Protect County Revenue counties. and Investment Strategies NACo members support the preservation of the Partner contributions Support Key Federal Investments federal deductibility of local property and income in Programs that Promote Local Job taxes and the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds amplify project outcomes Creation and Economic Growth that provide critical funding for infrastructure and NACo members support fully funding key federal development. Furthermore, we support legislative 5 STAR from page 6 If you have any questions, please programs and investments that support the nation’s initiatives that permit the collection of sales and use contact James Davenport at jdav- future economic growth, including the Community taxes from remote sellers. However, we oppose any diverse groups, including at least [email protected] or 202.661-8807. Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME efforts that would preferentially treat any industry five participants from local govern- NACo and its partners: the programs, the Economic Development Administra- seeking to create its own special immunity from ments, corporations and businesses, National Fish and Wildlife Foun- tion (EDA), investments in local workforce develop- state and local taxation. schools and youth groups, environ- dation and the Wildlife Habitat ment programs, and investments in highway, transit, mental and citizen organizations, Council, and in cooperation with aviation, port and water infrastructure development. Support Revenue Sharing and as well as representatives of federal the Environmental Protection Equally important, we support investments in Payment in Lieu of Taxes Programs and state government agencies. Agency, USDA Forest Service, programs that support the federal safety net, includ- NACo members support extending full manda- Partners can contribute cash National Oceanic and Atmo- ing Medicaid, social services, justice and public tory funding for the Payment in Lieu of Taxes or in-kind donations and should spheric Administration (NOAA), safety programs, and other domestic programs that (PILT) Program as well as legislative efforts to match the grant funds at a ratio of Southern Company, FedEx, Wells are essential to creating and maintaining jobs in reform and fund the expired Secure Rural Schools approximately one-to-one. Fargo, and others have made these healthy, safe and vibrant communities. (SRS) program. PILT compensates counties for Partner contributions amplify grants available through the Five tax-exempt federal land within their boundaries. the effect of these grants on lo- Star-Urban Waters partnership. Oppose Unfunded Mandates cal economy, spurring economic Since its beginning in 1999, Five NACo members are constantly vigilant against Support Rural Development Initiatives activity often three or four times as Star-Urban Waters has provided legislative or regulatory initiatives that undermine and the Farm Bill much as the grant. They show mea- more than $7.6 million for local local government decision-making authority and NACo members support federal investments in surable benefits to the community restoration projects across the U.S. contribute to reductions to our economic prosperity rural development and will work to prioritize and including ecological, educational These projects have invested more and workforce. We oppose any new unfunded or increase the flexibility of these investments through and economic benefits. than $24.2 million in matching funds underfunded mandates or federal initiatives that a Farm Bill reauthorization and funding for USDA To apply for a Five Star-Urban and contributions from community fail to protect county investments, including efforts Rural Development programs. These programs as- Waters grant, go to www.nfwf.org/ partnerships. They continue to create which seek to undermine the authority of state and sist rural counties in their efforts to partner with all fivestar. In addition to the applica- benefits for counties in water-and air- local governments with respect to public pension sectors to develop water-wastewater infrastructure, tion, this site also has information quality improvement. The program and retirement benefits reform, as well as efforts community facilities, broadband, electric, housing, about the grants, past projects and has funded 585 projects so far, and to use federal environmental and other statutes to renewable energy and capital for businesses. partnerships. Applications are new program partners ensure many overregulate county projects and programs. open until Feb. 7, 2013. more will come. 12 December 17, 2012 CountyNews • California carbon market could benefit counties

By Cara Martinson the next big step towards achieving Air Resources Board describes ects, allowing local governments three megawatts of power, which CSAC SENIOR LEGISLATIVE ANALYST its climate goals with its first cap- monetary proceeds from the cap- to be the delivery agent for the is fed back into the grid, enough and-trade allowance auction. Much and-trade program as a secondary state’s GHG-reduction goals and to power about 3,000 homes As Superstorm Sandy swept like the emissions trading programs benefit and not the program’s providing them the opportunity to in the community. In Southern through the Northeast, spreading of the European Union, and the main goal, the state is expected reap the benefits locally. California, Los Angeles County destruction in densely populated U.S. market to reduce acid rain, to generate a significant amount Counties across California are is using a sustainable road treat- areas, some pointed to the storm California’s cap-and-trade program of revenue. already making significant invest- ment that will markedly reduce as a warning sign of future climate works by setting a statewide cap or Much like an initial public ments that will advance clean and GHG emissions while reducing change impacts. Whether the warn- limit on GHG emissions from the offering or IPO of stock in the efficient energy, protect natural the cost of road rehabilitation by ings prove to be accurate, Sandy state’s largest polluters. financial world, the price of car- resources, promote sustainable recycling existing asphalt concrete has brought a renewed focus on Entities that fall under the cap, bon is the subject of some price infrastructure development and pavements in place, eliminating climate change and the potential such as oil refineries and large speculation, with some experts create local jobs. the need to produce new material consequences of global warming. industrial facilities, have the flex- predicting upwards of $1 billion For example in Northern Cali- or transport it to the worksite. While the global debate about ibility to decide how to meet their generated in the first year. The first fornia, Sonoma County’s Energy CSAC is working to promote how to forestall climate change overall reduction requirement by auction held on Nov. 14 generated Independence PACE (Property and secure funding for local pro- continues, progress is being made either reducing their own GHG approximately $289 million — Assessed Clean Energy)Program grams like these. at the state and local level. Cali- emissions or purchasing “allow- much less than expected — but has already financed nearly 1,800 Meanwhile, the infusion of fornia has been at the forefront of ances” that allow them to emit a more auctions are scheduled for renewable energy projects, with an cap-and-trade dollars for local climate change regulation with its specific amount of GHG. the coming year. estimated annual GHG reduction projects will not only help counties Global Warming Solutions Act of While not covered under the Nevertheless, with the potential of 4,944 metric tons per year. In to continue work in their own com- 2006, which established regulatory cap, local governments in Cali- for state revenue — large or small coastal Santa Cruz County, the munities, it will also help California and market mechanisms to achieve fornia are following the progress — for GHG-reduction activities as county’s methane-capture and meet its overall GHG-reduction real, quantifiable and cost-effective of the cap-and-trade program a result of the auctions, the Califor- cogeneration system captures goals. With the right amount greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions with a keen eye on the amount of nia State Association of Counties more than 90 percent of landfill- of enlightened cooperation, the reductions in the U.S. revenue the program is intended to (CSAC) is making a hard case for generated methane and converts state and counties can be valuable In November, California took generate. Although the California investing locally in climate proj- it to electricity, producing roughly partners in this historic endeavor. Douglas County marijuana sales ban to serve as model

POT VOTE from page 1 growers make use of natural light for their grow operations, and possibly Counties voting ‘for’ and ‘against’ Ammendment 64 swift action was motivated by mari- move into larger warehouse space. It juana’s unpopularity at the polls will be good for property taxes and in Douglas County. Over the past reduce electricity costs.” 12 years, four popular votes have The amendment passed with failed to legalize either medical or 55 percent of the vote statewide recreational marijuana use. in Colorado, with 31 of the state’s “It was a no-brainer,” Holmes 64 counties voting to approve the said. “The county needed to act measure. In the end, more people quickly to send a message that we voted on the Amendment 64 ques- would respect the voters’ wishes. tion then on the presidential ticket: The voters told us precisely what to 1,382,991 vs. 1,322,998. do, and that’s what we did.” Gov. John Hickenlooper (D) Meanwhile, on the state’s west- issued an executive order Dec. 6 ern border, Amendment 64 passed immediately codifying the amend- with a 79 percent vote in San Miguel ment, a month ahead of schedule, County. Plans are already in place though the federal government to adapt zoning regulations. position on marijuana is still an Planning Director Mike Rozycki issue, since it remains illegal. The said the county is following the Centennial State has had legal blueprint from medical marijuana medical marijuana laws for 12 Voted for Amendment 64 Voted against Amendment 64 implementation and will adapt years. those licensing provisions. “The Department (of Justice’s) He is not sure how long the state responsibility to enforce the Con- or otherwise — in public. The state Marijuana Policy Project. “It will place. Bergman said CCI is recom- will maintain two similar sets of trolled Substances Act remains department of revenue must adopt also create jobs, generate millions mending counties that are unsure regulations, one for medical mari- unchanged,” said U.S. Attorney regulations for the implementation of dollars for our state’s struggling about how to proceed enact a tem- juana use and one for recreational. John Walsh. “Members of the of a licensing program by July 1, school construction program, and porary ban. Banning commercial The County Board has identified public are also advised to remember 2013. The Legislature has to set provide business to a number of activity, however, may create a black an industrial park where four or five that it remains against federal law an excise tax, which voters would ancillary industries (real estate, con- market in those counties, he said. medical marijuana dispensaries to bring any amount of marijuana have to approve. struction, legal, marketing, etc.).” “Some counties that aren’t mor- have operated without incident. onto federal property, including all The Colorado Center on Law Hickenlooper created a task ally against it may ban it just because County officials are waiting for federal buildings, national parks and Policy projects that Amend- force to manage implementation, it’s so uncertain,” he said. “They a governor’s task force and state and forests, military installations ment 64 will add $14.5 million an- which will include Eric Bergman, can always revise the ban, that’s Department of Revenue to write and courthouses.” nually in new local sales tax revenue. CCI policy and research supervisor. the advice we’ve been giving — if new regulations concerning retail Much like with alcohol regu- “Ultimately, regulating mari- “As you might imagine, there in doubt, snuff it out.” sales, though. lations, the amendment makes juana like alcohol in Colorado are a million questions around it,” “We have a number of local it legal for anyone over the age would result in immediate savings, Bergman said. “The phrase ‘public *See this story online at www.naco. businesses there, close to the sher- of 21 to possess or transport up and it will quickly grow into a major use’ is a problem. What is public? org/countynews to view a presenta- iff’s office and jail, removed from to one ounce of marijuana and new revenue stream for our state In your car? There’s a lot to clarify.” tion by Colorado Counties, Inc. about residential areas and schools,” grow up to six plants. It may not, and localities,” said Mason Tvert, Counties have until Oct. 1, 2013 Amendment 64 and Douglas County’s Rozycki said. “We expect we’ll see however, be consumed — smoked communications director for the to have licensing regulations in ordinance. • CountyNews December 17, 2012 13 Research News Emergency Services Look to the Future When an emergency strikes communications software and from the current location by in- the STEMI program (ST-Segment a county resident, timely and ad- additional ambulances stationed cluding factors such as time of day Elevation Myocardial Infarction) equate emergency care is critical. throughout the county. ... the area that and current traffic conditions. This provides first responders with the With many areas experiencing an Counties have also noted that smart-routing technology assists tools necessary to diagnose the increase in emergency calls, coun- some of the increase in call volume previously had the drivers in finding new routes and condition and bypass the local ties are implementing new and in- to 911 was for non-emergency situ- worst response time provides the quickest response to hospital that is not equipped to novative ways to provide lifesaving ations. The joint EMS for Lake and improved dramatically, residents. handle these cardiac events. services to their residents. Sumter counties, Fla. estimated seconds near the best For rural communities, response While in transit to the cardiac Orange County, N.C. saw a about 10 percent of all calls are for time an important factor in serving, hospital, care is provided to the 68 percent increase in calls for non-emergencies. To combat this response time in the as is the ability of first responders patient as a team at the hospital emergency services between 2000 increasing number, a public educa- county to provide care en route to distant is provided with critical reports and 2010. A work group, including tion program was launched called hospitals. By using advanced tech- in order to begin treatment as stakeholders and residents, was es- WhentoCall911.com. nology and communication, the soon as the patient arrives. This tablished by the county commission The campaign goal was to not Fire Rescue squad in rural Camden program provides the best chance to recommend ways to respond to only reduce calls in non-emergency providing ambulance service, as County, Ga. can now help identify for survival for advanced cardiac the increase in demand, especially situations but also to provide the well as reducing write-offs. the most serious heart conditions and victims and is improving health in rural areas. public with strategies to use in Gaston County, N.C. experi- the most dangerous type of heart care for residents. As part of the solution, GPS case of a medical emergency, such enced an increasing emergency call attacks while in an ambulance. units were installed in all ambu- as what to do while waiting for an volume and high turnover among By having an EKG machine (Research News was written by Kathryn lances to determine and dispatch ambulance and what information to paramedics. To address these and other equipment on board, Murphy, senior research associate.) the closest vehicle. In addition, provide to first responders. issues, a plan was implemented the department moved from a 24- The campaign included the web- that included pay adjustments for hour shift schedule, during which site as well as billboards, newspaper employees as well as additional The H.R. Doctor Is In employees were allowed to sleep, advertisements, presentations at deployments to reduce response to a 12-hour shift schedule so that local community groups and other time and reduce workloads for no responders must be awakened outreach efforts directing residents responding units. in order to respond. Ongoing to the website. This reduction has The county created a quick- An HR Doctor improvements include the hiring the effect of saving tens of thousands response vehicles program to of more staff, installation of new of dollars by lowering the cost of supplement ambulances in the corners of the county. Staffed by Holiday Card one paramedic, these vehicles Word Search are dispatched to calls where the paramedic assesses the type of Douglas County, Neb. Facts emergency situation. If basic or advanced life support ’Twas the night before Christmas Learn more about this featured county in ‘What’s in a Seal?’ is needed, the paramedic provides And throughout County Hall care until either a local rescue squad Not a bureaucrat was stirring E L S I R U O S S I M W J V I Q L D L O or a paramedic ambulance arrives No sounds heard at all C P E C C Z U P A E O A N A P U Q S C H for transport. If the patient needs O I O W N T L Y Y M B S X L S P N R N A to be transported immediately, the The janitor’s night off, the alarm systems set J F S L I A A R A I J H L L A R P E H C paramedic provides care while being The beacons for security and decorations met Q H U D E S E H W T L I A E K A I D R U transported by a rescue squad EMT The ambient light kept the stars out of sight Y N O E G T A P K L E N R Y V C J N Q C or volunteer firefighter. No Bethlehem star could be seen on that night O L A E Y Z N N P U I G D A O V Y U J V With this new strategy, the area M T E Z G P U A D V V T U H L N K A E B that previously had the worst re- Those bringing gifts were turned back at the door R C V S Z W R Q B C T O I G L S I S E U sponse time improved dramatically, No gifts could be given, auditors hired galore No risk of polluting the ethics machine U K Q W V V A A X J L N I O O S T N Z S to within seconds of the best response Even frankincense and myrrh would have to be screened B U F F A L O V S Q I A C Q M T N O Z Y time in the county. E F J U R S D X H K Q N R V M I A P N X Population growth and an expan- sion of the suburbs of Lexington While Christmas and Chanukah meet in December S B G Z U L O R X L I S A K N Q N Z V O County, S.C. created challenges in We seem to forget what we all should remember X P Y O A C H F H L W J H G L U Y T M J addressing the increase in call volume Of friendship and family, of futures so bright B Y Q B C W W N K X D S T X Q T Q Z B V and the increased response time for Of civil behavior and doing what’s right U V X S T E P H E N D O U G L A S D N X emergency services. While GPS de- J H X K W Y V N I K N A K N O U U P U R vices were installed in all emergency The holidays tell us of great lessons learned O F L N U K S E O T O I R Y E P P H Z T vehicles and GIS data was utilized A safer and better world to be earned O Q V A P F F X Z Y O E M Z A O J F B O by the county, there was no system Give gratitude and joy — the greatest gifts, we believe F I X R I B T H E N L Y E B L J T B W J to give real-time information to each It’s better to give than it is to receive vehicle as well as to dispatch. ANTELOPE (hunted by Indians in 1800s) OTOES (Indian tribe forced out in 1854) To address this need, the county BENNINGTON (city in county) RALSTON (city) With Love and Best Wishes and local vendors collaborated BUFFALO (hunted by Indians in 1800s) SARPY (surrounding county) for a “Service to Others” Holiday Season… LEWIS AND CLARK (famous explorers SAUNDERS (surrounding county) to create a solution that involved installing mobile data terminals in Phil Rosenberg, HR Doctor passed through on their expedition) STEPHEN DOUGLAS (famous U.S. Charlotte Rosenberg, HR Spouse LINCOLN (opponent of Douglas, Senator county is named after) each ambulance. These terminals Elyse Rosenberg, HR Daughter elected president in 1860) VALLEY (city) connect to the central GIS database MISSOURIS (Indian tribe forced out in WASHINGTON (surrounding county) and other location information. Rachel Brown, HR Doctor Daughter 1854) When a call is dispatched to a unit, Toby Brown, HR Son-in-Law OMAHA (city) Created by Christopher Johnson the mobile data terminal determines Evie Brown, HR Grand-toddler www.hrdr.net the best route for the ambulance 14 December 17, 2012 CountyNews • News From the Nation’s Counties

Policy Gap,” highlights exem- Sheriff Tom Dart had the remains of XPENNSYLVANIA plary policies in BROWARD, Gacy’s unknown victims exhumed The Pastafarians will have to DUVAL, LEON, MIAMI-DADE, to create DNA profiles that could be string their spaghetti on someone ORANGE, PALM BEACH and compared with the DNA of people else’s tree this year. A motion SARASOTA counties. whose loved ones went missing in before the CHESTER COUNTY Twelve of the 45 counties sur- the 1970s, when Gacy was killing Commission on the group’s re- veyed had adopted ethics codes young men. quest to place a satirical holiday stronger than state law. Palm Beach, That effort led to the identifica- display on the historic county Miami-Dade and Duval have their tion of one Gacy victim. Last year, courthouse lawn died for lack of own ethics commissions, and five authorities in Florida created a DNA a second. counties have their own inspectors profile from the blood of executed The group worships the spaghet- general. serial killer Ted Bundy in an attempt ti monster as their god, according to link him to other murders. to Examiner.com. • PALM BEACH COUNTY Plans are underway to exhume Current county policy on Photo courtesy of Draganfly Innovations Inc. plans to drop its ban on new Internet the bodies of Richard Hickock and displays, in place since November XNORTH DAKOTA cafes that allow casino-style gam- Perry Edward Smith, convicted of 2010, permits only county owned The GRAND FORKS COUNTY SHERIFF’s Department has received ing without facing state gambling the murders written about by Tru- figures — a holiday tree, a crèche, a federal license to use a small helicopter drone in law enforcement across regulations. man Capote in his best-seller, “In a Menorah, holiday banners, a 16 counties in northeast North Dakota, WDAY-TV news reported. In March, the county imposed Cold Blood.” tribute to veterans and toy soldiers The 2-pound Draganflyer X6 is outfitted with a camera and can be easily a yearlong ban on allowing more — on the courthouse lawn. carried around in the back of a squad car. Grand Forks Sheriff Bob Rost of the fast-spreading, arcade-style XNEVADA During discussion at the meet- said the device could be used in requests for mutual aid such as the search establishments that have been The state will provide CLARK ing, Commissioner Ryan Costello for a lost child or escaped prisoner, or to monitor hazardous incidents. springing up in shopping centers COUNTY with $35 million in said, “I don’t stand in judgment of The county is working in partnership with the University of North across south Florida. The temporary federal transportation funding for an people’s beliefs no matter what they Dakota (UND), which will provide remote pilots from its aviation program. moratorium was intended to allow airport connector project to settle a are, God, multiple gods, spaghetti Alan Frazier, UND aviation professor said the aircraft will also be used for time to consider whether more local lawsuit over money the state took or lasagna. Whatever you want crime scene accident scene photography. rules were needed about where and from the county to balance the to worship, this is nothing the “It’s important that we take baby steps in this,” Rost said, “because if the popular gaming sites should be state budget, the Associated Press government can do to stop you. I this is new technology and we want to make sure we do everything right.” allowed, the Sun Sentinel reported. reported. just don’t think that this is where The Sheriff’s Office is leasing the aircraft for $1 a year, thanks to UND The County Commission chose Clark County sued the state to our focus should be now. We have grants. to leave it to the Florida Legislature recover $103 million in property something in place and I think we to take up the matter of potential fu- taxes the state took in 2009. Washoe should follow it.” ture regulations for the gaming sites, County settled a similar dispute with XCALIFORNIA commissioners announced a new contending that it’s a statewide issue. the state for $7.2 million. See NEWS FROM page 15 Paleontologists from the SAN security plan for future meetings BERNARDINO COUNTY Mu- on hydraulic fracturing. XINDIANA seum found fossils of the elusive It calls for the removal of individu- Officials fromLAKE , PORTER saber-toothed cat in the Nevada als who “elect not to participate in and LAPORTE counties are consid- What’s desert north of Las Vegas. civil discourse,” and the prosecution ering participating in the state’s $4.6 The team from the museum has of people who threaten the safety of million global information systems spent more than a decade combing others at meetings. The statement mapping program. in a through the Las Vegas Wash area in condemns the “bullying atmosphere” The mapping will be conducted Tule Springs looking for fossils from the board says was created by anti- using aerial photography that will the Ice Age, according to the Los fracking activists at a hearing at the help provide three-dimensional Seal? Angeles Times. Boulder County Courthouse. topographical images. The last time Despite uncovering thousands The meeting, held to discuss the state was mapped was in 2005 »Douglas County, Neb. of fossils at more than 400 sites, the proposed oil and gas regulations, with a laser radar. www.douglascounty-ne.gov scientists found little evidence of the was delayed for more than half an If the three counties commit saber-tooth until June, when two hour when protesters began chant- their portion of the dollars to the broken limb bones were discovered. ing their opposition and demanding project, the National Parks Service Douglas County, Neb. was founded in 1855. Named after former The museum won a grant from the the commissioners resign if they will pay for mapping its land within U.S. Senator Stephen A. Douglas, the county is one of the most Bureau of Land Management in 2008 refused to ban fracking. Boulder the three counties thereby reducing populous in the state with 463,565 people. to begin the excavation. police were called to the scene each county’s individual cost, the About a year ago, Commissioners Pam Tusa and Mary Ann after the meeting and took a report Post-Tribune reported. Borgeson discovered there were five county seals, but no one could XCOLORADO regarding the harassment, accord- verify that any of them had officially been adopted. • When the final votes were ing to the city’s online police blotter, XILLINOIS A committee of county employees, dubbed the County Govern- tallied in last month’s elections, the Denver Post reported. To address long-brewing curiosity ment Awareness Committee, was formed to find a new county seal in Colorado saw 68 new county about other victims of condemned a contest that would be similar to Nebraska’s competition to design commissioners, nearly a third of XFLORIDA murderers, like John Wayne Gacy, the state’s new license plates. their total contingent of 219, and • A report by Integrity Florida claimed, the COOK COUNTY More than 20 entries were submitted with lifelong Douglas County six all-female county boards. and the Leroy Collins Institute Sheriff’s Department created DNA resident Michael Angel Chavez selected as the winner. Continuing the distaff demo- found that a majority of 45 Florida profiles of the killers to help solve The triangles around the seal’s outer circumference were inspired graphic, 40 of the 68 new com- counties surveyed now require cold cases. by Chavez’s visit with an architect who told him that geometric shape missioners are also female. And ethics training for elected officials, It’s hoping to prompt authorities provides the strongest foundation. The two flying eagles represent drilling even further into the data, restrict gifts to officials from lob- in other states to submit the DNA the freedom Douglas County provides to everyone. The buildings come January 2013, three of the five byists and regulate contracting of their own executed inmates or are part of the skyline observed from his South Omaha home. commissioners on the ARAPAHOE practices. The groups found most from decades-old crime scenes, the COUNTY Board will be named have designated a county point Associated Press reported. (If you would like your county’s seal featured, please contact Christopher “Nancy.” person for ethics issues. The Illinois testing, which began Johnson at 202.942.4256 or [email protected].) The report, “Tough Choices: during the summer, is the latest • The BOULDER COUNTY Florida Counties Bridge the Ethics chapter in a story that began when • CountyNews December 17, 2012 15 Financial Services News The Role of Defined Contribution Pension Plans On an almost daily basis, public N. Caple Foundation, the National employee will ultimately receive the ranging from 70 percent to 100 defined contribution plan have ac- sector pension plans make media Association of Government Defined balance based on contributions and percent of pre-retirement income. cess to lifetime income options that headlines: they are too generous, Contribution Administrators, and the investment earnings.” • State and local pension admin- will protect them against longevity underfunded, create additional fiscal Center for State and Local Excellence, Key report findings include: istrators are using tools to make risk, and stress on public sector employers. notes that pension reforms at state and • Between 2009 and 2011, 43 saving and investing easier and • Financial literacy and coun- These headlines refer to traditional local levels increase the importance of states enacted pension reforms — more structured. seling can help employees improve or defined benefit pension plans. A defined contribution plans to supple- ranging from lowering levels of • Automatic enrollment is their investment and retirement recent report explores how defined ment employees’ retirement income. income for new employees, cur- an effective way to encourage planning choices. contribution plans can contribute The report notes that a defined rent workers and, in some cases, participation in voluntary defined The 30-page report, “The Evolv- to an employee’s base of retirement contribution plan “does not promise retirees. contribution plans. ing Role of Defined Contribution support from their defined benefit a specific amount of benefits at retire- • Experts predict a continuing • Employers need to assess what Plans in the Public Sector,” was and Social Security accounts. ment. In these plans, the employee or trend toward reliance on defined tools they need and keep in mind written by Paula Sanford and The report, issued by the Arthur the employer (or both) contribute. The contribution plans. that the primary goal is income Joshua M. Franzel, and is avail- • A predicted increase in hybrid security. able on the Center for State of plans — a combination of defined • Core defined contribution Local Government and Excellence benefit and defined contribution plans require the same fiduciary website at www.slge.org. County police cruiser plans. and management focus as defined • The definition of what con- benefit plans. (Financial Services News was written heralds choice of rides stitutes an adequate retirement • A best practice recommended by Lisa Cole, director, NACo Financial varies — with revenue benchmarks in the study is that participants in a Services Corporation.) NEWS FROM from page 14 and handle the stickers, according to the Associated Press. XTENNESSEE She approached a State Leg- NACo on the Move Counties now can decide wheth- islator about the change and the er to require “wheel tax” decals County Commission asked the on vehicle license plates, thanks to State Legislature to do away with a new state law prompted by the a the requirement. “They realized county clerk’s suggestion. The tax the county could save money and is a vehicle registration fee. do away with an outdated require- RUTHERFORD COUNTY ment,” she said will save about $13,000 by not is- State Sen. Bill Ketron said the suing separate wheel tax stickers. idea was “just something that made Clerk Lisa Duke Crowell said there sense,” and when county officials also will be a savings in staff time by proposed it, “We whipped up a bill not having to keep track of inventory quickly to make it happen.”

XVIRGINIA »»NACo Officers NACo at the Ohio Association manager, spoke about the Af- Anti-drunken driving advocates recently unveiled the “Chooser and Officials of Counties annual conference fordable Care Act at the Iowa Cruiser” in ARLINGTON COUNTY. • NACo President Chris Rodg- in Franklin County (Columbus) State Association of Counties’ The two-faced vehicle is painted as a hybrid taxicab and police cruiser ers spoke about his presidential Dec. 9. Fall School of Instruction in Polk — county police car front, yellow cab rear with the message “choose initiatives and NACo legislative pri- County Nov. 29. your ride.” The car is a joint initiative with the Arlington County Police NACo Staff • James Davenport, program Department, Arlington’s Red Top Cab and the nonprofit Washington orities at the Nebraska Association »» of County Officials Annual Confer- • Julie Ufner, associate legis- director, and Stephanie Osborn, Regional Alcohol Program. deputy director, participated in “Every drunk-driving incident is 100 percent preventable,” Arlington ence in Buffalo County Dec. 14. lative director, spoke before the • Rodgers, along with NACo National Conference of State the Digital Coast Partnership Police Chief Doug Scott said. “People have a choice in how they’re meeting in Charleston County, transported at the end of an evening.” Executive Director Matt Chase, Legislatures (NCSL) Environment S.C. Nov. 28–29. The focus of The vehicle will make appearances throughout the holiday season at also addressed members of the Committee during NCSL’s 2012 the meeting was to continue public sites to remind drivers of the dangers of drunken driving. Accord- California State Association of Fall Forum in Washington, D.C. to identify, develop and share the ing to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 25 percent Counties at their Annual Meet- Dec. 5–7. Ufner was also a panelist resources coastal managers need of all drunk-driving deaths in the U.S. occur in December. ing in Los Angeles County Nov. for a session on Clean Water Act via the Digital Coast. 26–27. Jurisdiction – Defining “Waters of (News From the Nation’s Counties is compiled by Charles Taylor and Charlie Ban, • NACo Immediate Past Presi- the U.S.” Dec. 6. On the Move is compiled by Christopher staff writers. If you have an item for News From, please email [email protected] or dent Lenny Eliason spoke about • Anita Cardwell, program Johnson. [email protected].) 16 December 17, 2012 CountyNews •

Model Programs From the Nation’s Counties York County, Va. Simple List Makes Storm-surge Prep Easy

By Charlie Ban “find” function is included in the STAFF WRITER introduction to the system. Long has already seen a reduc- Not all storms are created equal, tion in the number of phone calls which leads to some homeowners’ asking to about storm surge zones, surprise when a storm surge reaches particularly when Superstorm Sandy a house that had otherwise been safe approached in October and Novem- when the water rose before. ber. Because the county already had These problems came to a head the necessary information, there was in York County, Va. after a series no cost to producing the document, of storm surges over a decade. The aside from staff time. county measures its storm surges “It’s another tool for our resi- against a 1933 hurricane, which many residents’ preparations were dents to use,” Long said. “We was nearly matched by Hurricane complicated by being unable to read repackaged what we already had Isabel in 2003, Hurricane Ernesto technical maps made available by in a way that’s easier for a lot of in 2006, and very high tides with the county Geographic Information people to handle.” remnants of Hurricane Ida in 2009. Systems (GIS) technicians to follow An added benefit, Long said, was Luckily, 2011’s Hurricane Irene the contours of storm surge maps. that now the storm surge information did not bring the storm surge the The answer, Paul Long, said, could be accessed via smartphone, county feared, but the run up to was stripping away the bells and which was not feasible for most the storm saw a lot of confusion whistles from the information and people using the mapping system. among residents and questions giving it to users in a basic form. A Photo courtesy of York County, Va. that emergency managers thought searchable list of addresses and their Hurricane Isabel in 2003 caused flooding throughout York County, Va. Model Programs from the Nation’s Coun- were answered by county resources. corresponding storm surge zones. ties highlights award-winning programs. Chief among them, “Is my home in Long is the county’s deputy coor- a storm, we were getting dozens of county and its corresponding storm a storm surge zone?” dinator of emergency management. calls asking to clarify information. surge zone. Using a Web browser’s Use a smartphone scanner app to read With mandatory evacuation “The old maps were leading a lot We had to make the information “find” function, a user can plug in the QR code in this story to access York orders varying on the peninsula of our residents, who are not famil- clearer and easier to access.” an address and be taken to its list- County’s automated storm surge look- that includes Yorktown and James- iar or comfortable with computers, The GIS mapping option re- ing. Information on how to use the up tool. town — the first permanent English into an area they weren’t ready mains, but now a simple, text-only settlement in North America — for,” he said. “That meant, during file contains every address in the New name, same service tradition 2013 The new name on the street is Tony Jamison, business devel- County Solutions and Innovation opment associate, a new addition (CSI) Department. It’s the succes- to CSI, will help boost corporate Smart Justice Symposium: sor to NACo’s County Services outreach and Katie Bess, former Department. intern with the County Intelligence Creating Safer Communities CSI’s portfolio of services Center project, joins the Research include: research; education ser- Division, which is expected to play a vices and professional development; significant role in NACo’s legislative When: January 31-February 1, 2013 events and meetings; grants; special advocacy efforts. projects; program areas such as In the technical assistance arena, Where: The Westin Long Beach, Los Angeles County, Calif. Justice and Public Safety, Healthy CSI scored a new grant that will help Counties, Green Government; and the association promote “County The 2013 Smart Justice Symposium will highlight local justice business development and corpo- Leadership for Flood Prepared- issues and will emphasize how accountability, evidence- rate relations — a new addition to ness and Community Resilience.” based programs and policies, and data-driven decisions the department’s portfolio. Motorola Solutions Foundation can cut costs and ensure public safety. The Smart Justice Sym- CSI will continue to focus on high awarded NACo the $80,000 public service standards, while ramping safety grant. posium is part of NACo up support for NACo’s legislative If you would like more informa- President Chris Rodgers’s To register, go to www.naco.org/justice symposium objectives, special projects, technical tion about any of CSI’s services, Registration deadline: Jan. 23, 2013. presidential initiative. assistance to counties and outreach contact Dan Gillison, CSI director, to the corporate community. at [email protected]. For reduced rates, make hotel reservations by Jan. 9, 2013.

For more information, contact: Join the NACo Network… fb.com/NACoDC Meghan Levine [email protected] 202.942.4279 twitter.com/NACoTweets Dalen Harris [email protected] 202.942.4236 linkedin.com/NACoDC youtube.com/NACoVideo