NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES n WASHINGTON, D.C. VOL. 44, NO. 2 n January 30, 2012 ‘Super Wi-Fi’ Four Florida comes to counties plan New Hanover for climate County, N.C. change impacts

By Charles Taylor By Charles Taylor SENIOR STAFF WRITER SENIOR STAFF WRITER

New Hanover County, N.C. Monroe County again finds itself on the leading — more water than edge of technology as the first local CONTENT land — is the “canary government in the U.S. to launch a in the coal mine” “super Wi-Fi” network. for the effects of climate change The way was paved three years in southern Florida, according ago, when the county led the nation to County Administrator Roman in the switch from analog to digital Gastesi. TV, making available unlicensed Over the past century, the sea “white space” — unused frequencies level has risen 9 inches at Key West, the county seat. And of Monroe See WI-FI page 6 County’s 3,700 square miles, about 2,700 square miles are water. QuickTakes “We are totally vulnerable,” Photo courtesy of Bill and Bob Gibson Gastesi said. “We can’t just move States with the Best (l-r) Bill and Bob Gibson are “mirror-image” identical twins — one’s right-handed, the other a leftie. Both inland; there’s very little inland to Public Schools took their seats this month as new members of the Board of Supervisors in their respective southwest move into.” Virginia counties. To learn more about their similarities, see story on page 4. (Based on six areas of educational So a recently released draft policy and performance) Regional Climate Change Action Plan is important to Monroe, and 1 – Maryland to its partners in the Southeast 2 – Massachusetts Florida Regional Climate Change 3 – New York New proposal threatens Compact: Miami-Dade, Broward 4 – Virginia and Palm Beach counties. 5 – Arkansas eminent domain authority See CLIMATE page 3 Source: Education Week, January 2012 By Julie Ufner or replace any property destroyed development, as long as the land in ASSOCIATE LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR as a result of the violation. question is for public use, including Additionally, private property development by private interests. INSIDE » CountyNews A bill to limit the owners would have the right to In the case of Kelo, the city took use of eminent do- sue state and local governments private property through eminent Features CONTENT main by local govern- up to seven years after the property domain and turned it over to ments in economic takings if the property is eventually private developers for commercial development efforts passed the used for economic development development. House Judiciary Committee Jan. purposes. While H.R. 1433 may easily 24 by a vote of 23–5. That means that even if the origi- pass in the House of Representa- Under the proposed Private nal reason for taking the property tives, its trajectory in the Senate is Property Rights Protection Act of was not economic development, uncertain. 2011, H.R. 1433, property claimed state or local government could still NACo has no policy on the Sesame Street’s Elmo helps teen- through eminent domain authority face the prospect of losing federal specifics of this bill, however the inmate parents forge closer ties could not be used for economic funding if an owner believes that association opposes any federal to their children » Page 7 development purposes for a period within the seven-year window their attempts to preempt state and lo- Public safety communication of seven years after the taking if the property was used for economic cal planning policies, processes spectrum on the block » Page 2 governmental entity had received development purposes. and decisions, including land use Pennsylvania’s counties any federal economic funding. This bill responds to the 2005 authorities. confront reassessment State or local governments that Supreme Court decision in Kelo v. dilemmas » Page 2 violate the act’s provisions would City of New London, Conn. By a vote * Read a CBO analysis of the impact Paramedics are easing health forfeit federal economic develop- of 5–4, the court ruled that states and of a similar bill in the online version care burden in rural Colorado ment funds for two years unless local governments could use eminent of County News, at www.naco.org/ county » Page 5 they return all “taken” property domain authority for economic countynews. 2 January 30, 2012 CountyNews • Counties react to cuts in CDBG, HOME programs

By Daria Daniel billion from $3.3 billion — and Md., said regarding CDBG funding. to shelters to housing counseling tential was that there was going to ASSOCIATE LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR HOME was cut by 38 percent, going In his county, CDBG funding agencies to municipalities....” be little to no funding, we’re very to $1 billion from $1.6 billion in the was cut 12 percent (to $4.9 million The allocations announced by grateful for the restoration of the The U.S. Depart- FY12 HUD budget. Due to those from about $5.5 million), while HUD reflect the level of funding funds that has been done,” she ment of Housing and cuts and new Census data, many HOME lost about 34 percent (to approved for CPD programs in said, “and we’re very grateful to CONTENT Urban Development entitlement grantees will receive a $2 million from $3 million). counties nationwide. The amounts advocates in Congress both on the released the FY12 significant decrease in the formula “With respect to the HOME also reflect approved grant reductions House and the Senate sides.” allocations for the Community De- funding levels. program, that has been a huge cut,” and include any reallocated funds for velopment Block Grant (CDBG), “There are a number of agencies he said. “What it means is that we the CDBG and HOME programs. *HUD lists counties’ FY12 alloca- HOME Investment Partnerships out in the community that have ap- will then have less of an opportunity Debra Olson, who retired from tions on the Web. To view them, (HOME) and other Office of Com- plied to us, and we’re simply just not to put money into the development the DuPage County, Ill. Board of see the online version of this story munity Planning and Development going to be able to provide resources of affordable housing.” Commissioners last year to head a at www.naco.org/countynews. (CPD) formula programs on Jan. 17. to them,” Eric Brown, director of Brown said a range of agencies housing nonprofit, laments the lost The CDBG program was re- housing and community develop- benefit from the HUD programs: funding but sees a glass half-full. (Additional reporting by Charles Taylor, duced by 11 percent — to $2.94 ment for Prince George’s County, “We fund everything from pantries “[U]nderstanding that the po- senior staff writer) Conference committee deliberating D-Block allocation Rep. Dave Camp (R-Mich.), and the return of the 700 megahertz communications for public safety. Jeff Arnold, NACo deputy legisla- hold the majority of seats of any House Ways and Means Commit- narrowband spectrum: items of Its location next to the D-Block tive director. governing body and play a strong tee chair, has announced that the significant importance to the public along with spectrum currently NACo supports changes to the role in policy-setting and oversight conferees on the Middle Class Tax safety community. allocated to public safety helps governing bodies of a national functions,” Arnold said. Relief and Job Creation Act of NACo supports the reallocation ensure the efficient use of spectrum, public safety broadband network If your representative or senator 2011 will meet Feb. 1 to continue of the D-Block to public safety. reduces costs and provides interop- to require significant state and local serves as a conferee, please contact deliberations on H.R 3630, legisla- NACo also opposes any reallocation erable communications capabilities government involvement. NACo them immediately and express tion that extends payroll tax cuts, of 700 MHz narrowband spectrum that cannot be replicated in other strongly believes that the national your opinion on the above issues. among other items. in the final version of the legislation. spectrum bands. governing body must include more Other counties are also urged to Also in the bill are provisions The 700 MHz narrowband spec- To reallocate the 700 MHz nar- local representation and inclusion contact the conferees. Just call dealing with the reallocation of the trum is currently in use as a critical rowband spectrum would waste in the governing process than is 202.224.3121 and ask for your D-Block spectrum, the governing part of many state and local efforts billions of taxpayers’ dollars and currently proposed in the legislation. senator or representative. structure of the oversight function to provide mission-critical voice put the public’s safety at risk, said “State, local and public safety must List of Conferees for H.R. 3630 Pa. counties struggle President | Lenny Eliason House Publisher | Larry Naake Public Affairs Director | Tom Goodman Executive Editor | Beverly Anne Schlotterbeck with assessment woes Republican Senior Staff Writer | Charles Taylor Dave Camp (R-MI), House Ways and Means Chairman Staff Writer | Charlie Ban Graphic Artist | Jack Hernandez By Charlie Ban Kevin Brady (R-TX), House Ways and Means form. The judge who ordered the Editorial Assistant | Christopher Johnson STAFF WRITER reassessment eventually delayed Renee Ellmers (R-NC), House Small Business Subcommittee the use of the new data in tax on Healthcare & Technology chairman ADVERTISING STAFF The shock and billing for one year. Nan Hayworth (R-NY), House Financial Services Job Market/Classifieds representative Christopher Johnson confusion that swept The struggle illustrated why Tom Price (R-GA), House Ways and Means and House Budget National Accounts representative CONTENT over Allegheny assessments are a dicey issue in Tom Reed (R-NY), House Ways and Means Beverly Schlotterbeck County, Pa. hom- Pennsylvania, one of six states Fred Upton (R-MI), House Energy and Commerce chairman (202) 393-6226 • FAX (202) 393-2630 eowners when they received their that don’t require periodic assess- Greg Walden (R-OR), House Energy and Commerce Published biweekly except August by: Subcommittee on Communications and Technology chairman National Association of Counties property assessments in December ments. Of the commonwealth’s 67 Research Foundation, Inc. was no surprise to county officials. counties, 22 have not reassessed 25 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. They fought for years to prevent since the mid-1980s. That includes Democrat STE. 500, Washington, D.C. 20001 the assessment, which the state four of Allegheny County’s five Sandy Levin (D-MI), House Ways and Means Committee (202) 393-6226 | FAX (202) 393-2630 ranking member E-mail | [email protected] Supreme Court ordered back in neighbors. Online address | www.countynews.org 2009. “In Pennsylvania, reassess- Xavier Becerra (D-CA), Democratic Caucus vice chairman Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), House Budget Committee ranking Approximately 300,000 resi- ment is a political football,” said The appearance of paid advertisements in County News dents in Pittsburgh and a small Deb Crawford, chief assessor member in no way implies support or endorsement by the Na- Allyson Schwartz (D-PA), Budget Committee tional Association of Counties for any of the products, enclave municipality got their for Tioga County, located in the services or messages advertised. Periodicals postage Henry Waxman (D-CA), House Energy & Commerce Committee paid at Washington D.C. and other offices. assessment data first because their north-central part of the state. “We Ranking Member Mail subscriptions are $100 per year for non-members. school district’s budget process haven’t done one (since 2001) be- $60 per year for non-members purchasing multiple cop- starts earliest. Another million-plus cause the commissioners haven’t ies. Educational institution rate, $50 per year. Member Senate county supplemental subscriptions are $20 each. Send suburban residents will get their told me to do one. That’s not to payment with order and address changes to NACo, 25 Massachusetts Ave. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001. notices through early March. say they don’t have an open mind Democrat Even though, as one economist about it, though.” POSTMASTER: send address changes to Max Baucus (D-MT), Senate Finance chair County News, 25 Massachusetts Ave. N.W., predicted, two out of three will The Allegheny County saga got Ben Cardin (D-MD), Senate Finance and Senate Budget Ste. 500, Washington, D.C. 20001 see a lower bill when tax rates are heated when newly elected County Jack Reed (D-RI), Senate Appropriations (USPS 704-620) n (ISSN: 0744-9798) adjusted to keep the assessment Executive Rich Fitzgerald rejected Bob Casey (D-PA), Joint Economic Committee chair © National Association of Counties revenue-netural, the reports of the court-ordered reassessment and Research Foundation, Inc. homeowners seeing their values vowed to be jailed in contempt. Republican shoot up threefold brought property He backed down when it became John Kyl (R-AZ), Senate Minority Whip assessment to the forefront of the apparent his subordinates would be John Barrasso (R-WY), Republican Conference vice chairman region’s attention. It also gave fuel Mike Crapo (R-ID), Senate Budget and Senate Finance to those pushing for statewide re- See ASSESSMENT page 7 • CountyNews January 30, 2012 3 Climate change adaptation — not just a coastal issue

CLIMATE from page 1 the local government level,” Ad- ams said. The southeast Florida The plan makes 100 recom- approach is also scalable to larger mendations to mitigate or adapt to geographies and populations. “In the effects of climate change in the terms of what they’ve accomplished following six categories: down there, I think it’s fantastic,” • Sustainable Community and he said. Transportation Planning By working regionally, Adams • Water Supply, Management said, the counties have made it and Infrastructure easier for state and federal agencies • Risk Reduction and Emer- work with them more efficiently, gency Management rather than on a piecemeal basis. • Energy and Fuel “It creates a really efficient way for • Natural Systems and Agricul- federal agencies to be able to come ture, and in and provide technical assistance.” • Outreach and Public Policy. Jacobs pointed to a federal grant Recommendations address such that will expand the compact’s issues as how water supplies might planning scope to include three be affected by salt-water intrusion more southeast Florida counties — from rising seas and how building Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River. codes might need to change to The Southeast Florida Regional protect areas at risk of flooding. Planning Council received a $4.25 A recent study showed that of million Sustainable Communities the 20 most at-risk cities for sea-level grant from the U.S. Department of rise globally, the Miami-Dade metro Housing and Urban Development area was number one in value of Photo courtesy of Monroe County, Fla. in 2010 which helped the compact assets at risk and number seven in Mayor David Rice (r), Monroe County, Fla., listens to Doug Gregory (l), county extension director, University of expand its work. terms of population, said Broward Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, during a break in the Regional Climate Leadership Sum- Southeast Florida is not alone County Vice Mayor Kristin Jacobs, mit at Key Largo last month. Also pictured are Heather Carruthers, county commissioner; Tina Boan, budget nationally in planning for climate a founding member of the compact. director; and County Administrator Roman Gastesi. change effects, which may not fully The four-county region, with 5.6 manifest themselves for decades. It’s million residents, is more populous In addition to newly proposed ably a foot or two” higher, Gastesi Tallahassee and in Washington,” also happening in areas such as San than 30 U.S. states. strategies, the plan draws from ef- said, to compensate for expected Gastesi said. Francisco, the Pacific Northwest The counties have been work- forts already underway in individual sea-level rise. The region’s efforts are moving and the northeastern U.S. ing on the plan for two years and counties and shared priorities. Ja- Monroe County’s participation from mitigation, such as reducing Adams said other especially unveiled a draft for public comment cobs called it notable for bringing in the compact is especially impor- greenhouse gas emissions — still an vulnerable areas include the Hamp- at a Regional Climate Leadership Republicans, Democrats, tea party tant because of its size compared important pre-emptive strategy — to ton Roads area of Virginia, New Summit last month at Key Largo members and independents together to its partners — a population adaptation. Orleans and the Texas Gulf Coast. in Monroe County. In addition to to agree on common regional goals. of 73,000, versus 2.5 million for “This kind of integrated climate And climate change adaptation county commissioners and staff, Monroe County is already planning Miami-Dade, 1.7 million in Bro- planning that deals with both issues, planning isn’t just a coastal phe- collaborators included biologists, to raise the base elevation a new ward and 1.3 million in Palm Beach. I think it’s becoming increasingly nomenon. The intermountain West emergency managers, transporta- fire station near Key West “prob- “It increases our power in common around the country at and desert Southwest are looking tion planners, climate scientists at water supply issues, he said. and water management experts, “Chicago is looking at flooding and as well as other professionals from extreme heat.” the public and private sectors. The Climate Change Action Plan Highlights For other counties interested public has 60 days from the plan’s in planning for climate change Dec. 9, 2011 release to comment. The Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change assisted propagation impacts, Adams said there is a host “After that, it goes before the Compact’s draft Regional Climate Change Action • identifying and reducing obstacles for permit- of model plans from other parts of four county commissions to adopt, Plan makes 100 “actionable” recommendations in ting agricultural practices (including growing and the country. either in whole or in part,” Jacobs six categories to be accomplished over the next five selling produce) in urban areas, in order to encourage “Through creative grantsman- said. That doesn’t mean the coun- years. Annual reports will monitor progress towards urban farming and reduce greenhouse gas emissions ship there are ways in which local ties will have the funds available to meeting plan goals. The recommendations include: related to the transport of farm produce governments can secure FEMA implement the plan nor that the time • revising building codes and land development • identifying transportation infrastructure at risk funding and funding from other line would be strictly adhered to, she regulations to discourage new development or from climate change in the region; determining sources — depending upon their added. And even if adopted, the plan post-disaster redevelopment in vulnerable areas whether, when, where and to whom projected im- location — that would enable them will continue to evolve. The plan and requiring vulnerability-reduction measures for pacts from climate change might be significant, and to begin to assess vulnerabilities and has an initial five-year horizon for new construction and redevelopment • initiating a regional public education campaign to begin to integrate efforts to make implementing recommendations. • developing policies to address new transporta- to educate residents, business owners, policy mak- themselves more resilient,” he said. “One cannot think of an adapta- tion infrastructure development in light of antici- ers on the merits of preserving open land as an Jacobs extolled the value of tion plan as a kind of once-and-done pated future climate impacts, such as consideration “insurance policy” for adaptation to sea-level rise working cooperatively. She said: endeavor,” said Steve Adams, of future floodplain conditions and vulnerable areas in south Florida. “Each time we take a step, we’re senior program advisor for climate that could require the rerouting of roads because The policy recommendations will be implemented taking them together, and the kind adaptation for of the Institute for of potential flood damage through several approaches including development of national attention that we’re Sustainable Communities in Eu- • developing a salt-water intrusion baseline, of policy and operational guiding documents by local getting — as well as funding and a gene, Ore. “The science progresses. using inundation mapping, salt-water intrusion and regional governing bodies, and the development bump in grant applications, and so The land form that you’re concerned models and stormwater management models to of consistent goals and measures throughout the forth — it’s proving that it’s worth about changes over time, and so identify areas and infrastructure at risk governments in the region. it to partner.” your vulnerability changes. These • compiling species information for rare plant processes have to be dynamic in species in threatened natural communities and (Source: Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change *For a link to the Draft Regional Climate that every so often you have to come developing adaptation plans that include, at a Compact Counties – Draft Regional Climate Change Change Action Plan, see the online ver- back and revisit what your current minimum, seed-bank repository collection and Action Plan) sion of this story at www.naco.org/ vulnerability is.” countynews. 4 January 30, 2012 CountyNews • Virginia supervisors share ‘identical’ political views

By Charles Taylor That education, combined with “pranked” someone by switching SENIOR STAFF WRITER their identical looks, would mark identities? them as targets when they joined “We’re not at liberty to say,” said Bill and Bob Gibson have al- the Corps seven years later. one, speaking for both. “We used to ways done things together — from “As far as boot camp goes, we when we were younger, but not in playing tennis in high school and stuck out like a sore thumb due to a long time. I can’t even remember college to enlisting in the Marines being 29 years old, twins and college the last time.” at age 29 in 1991, inspired by the graduates,” Bob Gibson said, “and When pressed, Bob Gibson onset of Operation Desert Storm. you can imagine the drill instructors would admit to some mischief- Today, both are state probation and had fun with that.” The brothers making with his brother: playing parole officers who share the same needed waivers to enlist, since the “some jokes on our kids, just pre- southwest Virginia office. there was an age limit of 28 at the tending to be each other.” Last fall, they took another step time. Both were lance corporals in For all their similarities, the together. The identical twin brothers the infantry. brothers do have differences. ran for the Board of Supervisors in They live about 25 miles apart. their respective, neighboring coun- The ‘Eyes’ Have It While each is married, Bob and ties — and won. So close are they, you might be his wife, Jennifer, have three boys Washington County, Va. Su- tempted to conflate their names ages 3, 5 and 6, and Bill and Paige pervisor Bob Gibson and Russell to “Bill-Bob,” and people mistake Gibson are the parents of an

County, Va. Supervisor Bill Gibson Photo courtesy of Bill and Bob Gibson them for each other “daily,” Bill 11-year-old daughter and a son, took office earlier this month. Identical twins (l-r) Bill Gibson and Bob Gibson also have two identical jobs: Gibson said. 4. Helbert says those kids partly It was the first race for “big By day, they’re both probation and parole officers in southwest Virginia. “We’re what you call mirror- motivate the brothers’ foray into brother” Bob — 4 minutes older They “moonlight” as first-term county supervisors in neighboring Russell image twins. I’m left-handed and politics — to “make sure that their than his twin — who does most of and Washington counties, respectively. Bob is right-handed. Our families children are going to have every the talking to a reporter. He won by even get us confused at times,” he opportunity afforded to them and 204 votes. It was Bill’s second run; almost five years; Bill sits on her left, that,” Helbert said. “They’ve always said. “Always have.” that they live in a good, prosperous, four years ago, he lost by 75 votes. Bob on her right. Politically, how- respected different points of view.” Helbert has no trouble telling stable environment.” This time, he won by more than 700. ever, both are to the right of many Years before joining the Marines her coworkers apart: There’s their The Gibson twins also diverge in “We just wanted to bring of the residents Russell County, themselves — they served from opposite-handedness, and “Bill’s their football fandom: Bill roots for common-sense conservative values where they were raised. 1991 to 1995 — the Gibson twins eyes are a little smaller,” she said. the Minnesota Vikings, while Bob to our boards,” said Bob Gibson. “What I’ve always admired attended East Tennessee State And they wear their hair differently. is a St. Louis Rams fan. “So neither “And when you talk to one of about them is that although the University, where both majored in But on the phone, it’s harder to one of us had much to cheer for this us, you’re basically talking to people around us have different per- sociology and minored in business, tell. “If I call into the office, unless I year,” Bob Gibson said. both of us.” The brothers, 49, spectives, they’ve always respected graduating in 1984. know who was there when I left, one While their teams’ performance are Republicans — Bob, the only or the other,” she said, “sometimes was nothing to crow about, the GOP elected official in a “very I can’t tell their voices apart.” brothers are identically ready to Democratic” county. Bill is one This leads one to wonder: Have prove their mettle on the political of five Republicans on his County NACIO opens Awards of the brothers ever intentionally field. Board, which has one Democrat and one open seat. The Gibson brothers say they Excellence competition also ran for office out of concern Profiles for the economy in their counties, to The National Association of The Awards of Excellence are spur job creation and cut “wasteful County Information Officers (NA- open to any county staff member spending.” Russell County has lost CIO) is seeking entries for the 2012 eligible to join the National As- in Service three major employers in the past Awards of Excellence. These awards sociation of Counties (NACo), two years, they said. recognize the outstanding public in- or any staff of an eligible state “Both of us want to be proactive formation work being done in coun- association of counties. Entrants » Jerrie Tipton with our boards to try to recruit ties across the nation to increase are not required to be current NACo Board of Directors businesses into this area,” Bob understanding and strengthen trust members of either NACo or Commissioner Gibson added. in county government. NACIO. Entries in Spanish will Mineral County, Nev. Agriculture is a major employer The 2012 awards recognize the also be accepted in all categories, in both counties. Washington is public information, public educa- and will be assessed by a panel of larger with about 55,000 residents; tion, public engagement and trans- fluent Spanish speakers. Number of years active in NACo: 5 Russell’s population is almost parency in government initiatives Entry fees are $35 for members Years in public service: 5 29,000. In the latter, there’s also between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2011. and $50 for non-members for each Education: B.S. degree in architectural design with an extended major coal mining and gas production. Awards for excellence are given submission (multiple submissions in interior design, and continuing education in natural resources Washington County is perhaps in nine categories: annual reports, are permitted). Entries should better known as home of the nation- brochures and multiple-page book- be sent to Awards Coordinator Three people (living or dead) I’d invite to dinner: I would invite more ally renowned Barter Theatre in lets, publications, writing, graphic Dave Rose, El Paso County Public than three or have more than one dinner. I would invite both sets of Abingdon, the county seat. design, photography, audiovisual Information, 200 S. Cascade Ave., great-grandparents and grandparents, and my mom and dad. More for The brothers were born in productions, special projects and Colorado Springs, CO 80903. filling in the gaps on the history of their lives, family history, etc. Washington County and have three computer media with subcategories All entries must be postmarked other siblings — two brothers and a in several of the larger initiatives. no later than 5 p.m. April 1 in order You’d be surprised to learn that I: can ride a unicycle. sister; no other twins — all raised by Entries will be evaluated on to be eligible for standard entry rates. My favorite way to relax is: I read — a lot! a school-librarian mom and a dad originality, effort and effectiveness, Entries received after April 1 but I’m most proud of: the straw bale house my husband and I are who was variously a U.S. Marine, strength of impression, difficulty prior to April 15 will be accepted but building ourselves, and raising two happy, healthy, productive kids. traveling salesman and later postal and overall quality. Each entry may subject to a late fee of $15 dollars worker. It was their “politically earn “Superior,” “Excellent” or for members, $25 for non- members. My pet peeve is: trashy people. inclined” parents who gave them “Meritorious” distinction. Up to For any additional information My motto is: “I don’t care who gets credit as long as it gets done.” their conservative values, they said. two “Superior” awards may be given or for any questions please contact The last book I read was: The Help. Jennifer Helbert has worked in in a single category at the discretion Dave Rose at DaveRose@elpasoco. the same office with the Gibsons for of the judges. com or 719.520.6540. • CountyNews January 30, 2012 5 Community paramedics expand health safety net

By Christopher Johnson the county money during tough plan and implement Colorado’s added. So far, the program has elected officials who maintain the EDITORIAL ASSISTANT economic times. first Community Paramedic attracted $800,000 in grants from fiscal health of a community and “The purpose of the program is program. interested parties. the health department officials who Eagle County, to improve health outcomes among The program model uses para- Another key component of the assess needs and manage resources in Colo. paramedics medically vulnerable populations medics — already trained in basic program is the standardized curricu- order to provide the range of services CONTENT have expanded their and to save health care dollars by health monitoring — to perform lum, developed by the Community to meet those needs. role in providing preventing unnecessary ambulance home checks on patients after Healthcare and Emergency Coop- To date, WECAD Community health care in an effort to cope transports, emergency department receiving doctor referrals. The goal erative that colleges in any state, Paramedics have seen 65 patients with fewer doctors and an aging visits and hospital readmissions,” is preventative care. Tasks include province or nation can customize since they started in June 2011. The and growing population. WECAD Chief Chris Montera said. taking vital signs, drawing blood, for their own certification program. success of the program has generated Last summer, the West Ea- WECAD’s daily experience giving shots, changing bandages Through this curriculum, colleges interest from other counties and gle County Ambulance District with emergency calls ranging from and — perhaps most importantly and universities, such as Colorado media across the country. (WECAD) launched the Com- medication issues to individuals — keeping tabs on how patients Mountain College, train first re- “I recommend counties that want munity Paramedic Pilot Program postponing medical attention are caring for themselves at home. sponders at the appropriate level to to start a program like this find a to allow Emergency Medical prompted it to explore ways that They also collaborate with home serve communities more broadly physician who will champion this Service workers to provide health paramedics could be more proac- care companies and hospice care in the areas of primary care, public program and have a good EMS sys- services to rural areas where access tive. In 2009, WECAD along with to ensure proper care is provided. health, disease management, preven- tem in place,” Montera said. “Those to physicians, clinics and hospitals the Eagle County Public Health A $1.5 million investment in tion and wellness, mental health and two things are critical if they want is difficult, and in some cases, does Agency, local physicians and grants for the pilot project — mostly dental care. the program to succeed.” not exist. It’s a new idea for the the International Roundtable on for labor, including a traditional The program exists for the sole 41,659 residents and could save Community Paramedicine met to paramedic — is expected to produce purpose of serving the health care *For links to additional information about $10 million in medical cost needs of residents. Its success relies including the Community Paramedic savings over five years in an area on the people who live and travel in Program workbook, visit www.naco. Prescription drug card of about 15,000 people, Montera medically underserved communities, org/countynews. program changes outlined Applications At its December meeting, NACo’s QQ: We would like to have a Board of Directors approved a modi- new, signed agreement for fication to the association’s popular our files. What should we do? Open Prescription Discount Card Program A: If you choose to continue that adds a new transaction revenue with the current program, sign sharing fee option. Participating Exhibit B and return it to NACo. for Five Star counties now may choose to keep A fully executed copy will be the present program in its current returned to you once it has been Restoration Grants form or may choose to receive $1 signed by all parties. If you choose per-prescription-filled when the card the transaction revenue sharing is used. fee model, sign both Rider 1 and The Five Star Restoration Grant Participating counties that wish Exhibit B and your county’s W-9 Program provides $10,000 to to maintain the current program and return them to NACo. A fully $40,000 grants on a competitive do not need to take any action. executed copy will be returned to Participating counties that wish to you once it has been signed by basis to support community-based wetland, riparian and adopt the transaction revenue shar- all parties. coastal habitat restoration projects. These projects build ing fee model must sign and submit diverse partnerships and foster local natural resource additional paperwork. Regardless QQ: What does this new of a county’s decision, there will be contract mean for our stewardship through restoration, education, outreach and no disruption to plan participants residents? training. using the program. A: The renewed agreement The NACo Prescription Dis- continues the excellent program count Program continues to grow, that has produced 24 percent aver- Project sites may be public land like parks, streams, school offering average savings of 24 per- age prescription savings for your campuses or private land such as corporate facilities that are cent on thousands of medications residents. Residents in counties accessible to the community. Winning proposals demonstrate and access to more than 60,000 that choose not to participate in pharmacies nationwide. the transaction revenue sharing active restoration of stream, river or wetland habitat and fee model will receive a slightly bring together a diverse partnership to engage in community Frequently Asked greater savings percentage. support and education. Questions QQ: Can our residents still QQ: If my county has already go to the same pharmacies Applicants can submit proposals until Feb. 15. signed a contract, do we need under this agreement? to sign the new one? A: Yes. This agreement does A: If you want to continue not affect the size of the phar- Please visit www.naco.org/fivestar or contact Carrie Clingan participating in the current program macy network. More than 60,000 at [email protected] for more information and application without change, the answer is “No.” pharmacies participate in the instructions. If, however, you wish to initiate NACo Prescription Discount Card the transaction revenue sharing Network. fee model, you need to sign and submit to NACo, Exhibit B, Rider For more information, contact Andrew 1 and your county’s W-9 form. The Goldschmidt at agoldsch@naco. documents are available on NACo’s org, 202.942.4221, or Ilene Manster at website at www.naco.org/drugcard. [email protected], 202.942.4291. 6 January 30, 2012 CountyNews • County websites highlight sustainability efforts

By Charlie Ban ing more that isn’t featured on the Users can highlight a series of bicycle focuses on educating users about west coast, Miami-Dade County STAFF WRITER website, editorial decisions on what is trails, but also locate charging stations sustainable concepts, including via uses Miami-Dade Green much to the displayed are made by Dave Defanti, for electric cars, ethanol fueling sta- a reading list. same effect as others, but features its The somewhat-ab- Sacramento County Climate Action tions and light rail routes. Nearby, Sustainable Napa County artificial reef program and Get Your stract idea of “green” Plan project manager. “We want to stress programs highlights case studies, including one Green On, a contest challenging high CONTENT is getting some illustra- “We judge projects on a case-by- that combine saving money and as far away as Virginia. school students to post videos to tion on county websites. case basis, whether we can release an environmental benefit,” Defanti To the north, Snohomish County, YouTube conveying their messages Sacramento County, Calif. re- enough information to make it worth said. “Those are our coequal goals Wash. uses its sustainability website of sustainable living. The winning cently debuted Green Sacramento the time a user would spend reading for what we do.” to promote services to residents, commercial will air in movie theaters County, which highlights sustainable about it,” he said. “Once we have The production was all done including home energy assessments throughout the county. projects and smart environmental enough to make a good story, we in-house, a collaboration among and incentive programs. North Carolina State University practices taking place in the county. will publish information about it. We Defanti, the geographic information Bexar County, Texas’ sustainabil- in Raleigh hosts a website for the Brenda Bongiorno said County want to have a representative sample systems staff that created the map and ity website offers a performance vali- Wake County Environmental Sus- Executive Brad Hudson insisted that of the various sustainable projects the the information technology staff that dation function that allows users to tainability Task Force, which includes the county promote its sustainable county and private sector are pursu- tied it all together. compare resource consumption and all documents relating to the task projects, following the compilation of ing, because it’s varied.” Visitors can register for e-mail production between different build- force’s environmental stewardship a comprehensive climate action plan. Defanti is particularly fond of the alerts to notify them of new projects ings, compare different resources agenda, including the group’s final “He told us, ‘We have all this green Green SacCounty Map, which over- that are added to Green Sacramento for the same building and compare report and all documents. stuff — let’s get it all in one place,’ so lays the locations of LEED-certified County. resource consumption production for we figured out a way to showcase the buildings, green businesses and solar- Other counties are also showcas- different days on graphs and charts. *For links to additional information, projects,” she said. powered projects, plus a substantial ing their green accomplishments. Demonstrating that environmen- visit this story on www.naco.org/ As it turns out, the county is do- selection of transportation options. Sustainable Sonoma County tal sensitivity is not exclusive to the countynews. Super Wi-Fi shows promise in providing broadband to rural communities

WI-FI from page 1 just like TV signals, and don’t need speed connectivity,” Chaney added, frankly, is in rural areas,” he said. a clear “line of sight.” citing another possible use, “so get- “There’s more white space avail- between analog UHF and VHF “For me as an elected official, ting service there with a commercial able in rural areas, in addition to channels. I’m looking at it as an economic provider is very expensive. If we can the fact that you can send the signal The county is working with the development tool — job production, put in radios and get even better over longer distances and through city of Wilmington, the county seat, those kinds of things,” New Ha- service than what we’re currently trees and around buildings and all to deploy super Wi-Fi in three public nover County Commissioner Jason getting, and the capital investment kinds of things.” More white space parks that will provide free public Thompson said in an interview. “And pays for itself back in say six months, is available in rural areas because Wi-Fi and video security monitoring. anything we can do to facilitate that, then we will have saved the county historically they were served by fewer “We at the FCC are really most that’s what I’m going to do.” He’s dollars over the long term.” television stations, so the spectrum pleased to see this new service been one of his County Board’s Speaking of costs, she said so far isn’t as crowded. TFA is currently “in potential being made available to leading advocates of the technology. the only expense has been “in-kind” conversation” with a central-Texas the American public,” Allen Still- Because there are no consumer services provided to its partners in county about possibly doing a white well, deputy chief, FCC Office of devices commercially available that the project. The county is working space network in one of its small Engineering and Technology, said can receive super Wi-Fi signals, with Spectrum Bridge and KTS towns, he said. at the launch of the initiative Jan. according to Leslie Chaney, the Wireless, which the FCC certified To ensure that white space net- 26. “This is in fact … the first com- county’s IT director, super Wi-Fi last year to provide equipment for works don’t interfere with licensed mercial deployment of white space is serving as a “wireless extension the county and city. “Now that television broadcasts and other technology in the world.” cord,” as one of the county’s partners we’re going to roll this out in a live permitted uses, Spectrum Bridge New Hanover County, popula- has described it,” between two or environment, what do we pay?” she manages a database that assigns tion 202,670, is the only local govern- more Wi-Fi base stations to provide said. Currently, super Wi-Fi radios non-interfering frequencies to white ment the FCC thus far has certified “backhaul” capability. A pole-mounted “super Wi-Fi” radio (which is essentially what all Wi-Fi space devices on-the-fly, and adapts to deploy a super Wi-Fi network, and “So you can’t get an iPad with a transmits security-camera images base stations are) are not in mass to new TV broadcasts, licensed wire- other nations lag in the technology. white-space chip in it now,” Chaney from a New Hanover County, N.C. production. “We’re working out less microphone users and other TV Super Wi-Fi provides broadband said. “That’s some of the future park. with our partners, what do we pay band users operating in the area, the speeds using lower frequencies in development that we think will come for those first-generation devices, and company said. The database keeps the white space than the conven- as the rules settle out, as more people monitoring and sensing, Thompson how do we ensure the county that we track in real time of who’s using tional Wi-Fi available in homes and get into the market of developing for said. Currently, it’s a labor-intensive don’t pay a large premium for being which frequencies and where there businesses. Lower frequencies can this space.” task to monitor water quality in the an early adopter?” she said. “We’re is unused space. Super Wi-Fi devices travel farther — one to two miles New Hanover County also coastal county’s “miles and miles” buying endpoint devices, and we’re query the database to establish what’s versus perhaps 100 feet — penetrate hopes to use the technology for of wetlands: A tester in a canoe must still working out the radios and what available. obstacles like buildings and trees, other applications, such as remote paddle around creeks, estuaries and those costs will be.” “Every county will have differ- waterways looking for contamina- As with parks, wetlands and ent available white space,” Chaney tion, he said. Any given location landfills, it’s in areas where long said. “In New Hanover County WIR Conference Registration Open might be sampled and tested every distances must be bridged that super here, we have a very small number three to four months. Wi-Fi shows great potential, experts of broadcast channels, so we have Santa Fe County, N.M. will host NACo’s 2012 Western Interstate “With the white space initiative, say. And rural areas fit the bill ideally. lots of white space. If you went to Region (WIR) Conference May 16–18. The conference focuses on we’ll actually be able to put in these William Reed is president and a New York City for instance, you public lands and other issues critical to the western region of the little monitoring systems, and in real CEO of Technology for All (TFA) would find very little white space United States. It provides county leaders with the opportunity to time, check the contaminant levels in Houston. The nonprofit has been because they have so many broadcast hear speakers, discuss legislation and network with other officials in our waterways ‘live,’” Thompson working with Rice University using channels.” to exchange information on those issues. added. The county has already suc- National Science Foundation fund- Register today at www.naco.org  meetings  participate  WIR cessfully tested super Wi-Fi for this ing to provide Wi-Fi to an urban, *To view a video of New Hanover Conference. If you have questions please call the NACo Meetings purpose, Chaney said. low-income area of 19,000 residents County’s Jan. 26 launch event, see the Call Center, 202.942.4292. “We have a landfill that is in pretty in Harris County, Texas’ largest city. online version of this story at www. much a no man’s land as far as high- “I think the biggest potential, naco.org/countynews. • CountyNews January 30, 2012 7 ‘Elmo’ program helps teen-offender parents with their kids

By Christopher Johnson research study being conducted mat of alphabet letters and a floor- EDITORIAL ASSISTANT by Georgetown University in to-ceiling wall painting of Elmo. Washington, D.C. and is imple- Holbrook added that although Elmo, the furry mented through its Youth Law some of the youth are incarcer- puppet from Sesame Center. It is currently active in five ated for serious offenses, the CONTENT Street, has helped California counties: Sacramento, interactions with their children children learn every- Fresno, Orange, San Bernardino as observed by facilitators have thing from counting to fire safety. and Santa Barbara. been positive, enlightening and In Santa Barbara County, Calif., Detainees are taught how to heartwarming. It has also reduced he’s bringing incarcerated teen praise, play and interact with their inappropriate behavior among the parents and their children closer children through the use of videos fathers and strengthened the bond together. provided by the Children’s Televi- with their children. Two of Santa Barbara County’s sion Workshop and a curriculum The Santa Barbara County Pro- juvenile detention facilities, Saint presented by facility personnel. bation Department has been fund- Maria Juvenile Hall (SMJH) After a weekly group session ing the program with a discretionary and Los Prietos Boys Camp and with the facilitators, the detainees account, and includes monies that Academy, have recently started participate in weekly visits with their come from the wood-splitting busi- implementing the “Baby Elmo” children where they can practice ness run by Los Prietos. Churches program, a 10-week course of what they’ve learned. Rooms in and residents around the county training exercises and videos both facilities have been converted also make donations. The money designed by child-development Photo courtesy of Santa Barbara County, Calif. Probation Department into fun, bright, playful environ- has helped these facilities with specialists to foster relationships An inmate at the Los Prietos Boys Camp feeds his son while cradling him ments and were inspired by juvenile purchasing DVDs and televisions between incarcerated teens and as a part of the Baby Elmo Program. This program teaches incarcerated institutions officers and fathers at for the rooms, and other accessories. their children. teens how to play and interact with their babies. SMJH, Holbrook and participants. “The hope is that the detainees The visitation room at Santa * For links to additional information on become engaged with their kids, Holbrook, assistant director at future and how it will affect their Maria Juvenile Hall offers a warm the program, find the story on County want to take responsibility and Los Prietos. “A program like this children.” welcome for parents and children News Online at www.naco.org/ want to do better,” said Laurie makes them think about their The program is part of a with brightly colored toys, a floor countynews. Some Pa. counties have not assessed since mid-‘80s ASSESSMENT from page 2 Pa. County CT

the ones at risk. All county personnel @ handling the assessment effectively Assessments US report to Common Pleas Judge Stan- ton Wettick, county spokeswoman Allegheny County’s prior Amie Downs said. assessment, in 2002, seems The state Supreme Court ordered downright fresh compared to the reassessment, after ruling that its neighboring counties’ last the county’s use of 2002 base assessments: numbers for property tax was Armstrong, 1997 unconstitutional, due to its unfair- Beaver, 1982 CONT ness to property owners whose Butler, 1969 lots had lost value or not changed. Washington, 1981 Fitzgerald argues that the court- Westmoreland, 1972 ordered assessment puts Allegheny “Contact Us” County at a disadvantage because provides members other counties have gone decades Photo by Charlie Ban For a lot of counties that haven’t without one. From here, he will Some Allegheny County, Pa. neighborhoods saw their property assess- reassessed in a while, he said, a chunk with information push for a statewide reassessment ments triple. of the cost will go to updating the and answers! system, starting with a lobbying trip records. Allegheny’s 2001 assess- to Harrisburg. ket makes timing a delicate issue,” work groups studying property valu- ment cost $23.9 million and the 2010 Doug Hill, executive director he said. “Several counties that ation and reassessment. One deals assessment cost $12.4 million. Just use the “Contact of the County Commissioners As- started in the process in 2007 halted with the actual assessment process, One of those counties that will Us” feature on the sociation of Pennsylvania (CCAP), because the recession was going to including uniformity, detail in the likely bear the cost of a records NACo website to said Fitzgerald’s brash strategy has throw off results too much.” process and creating a single statute upgrade is Centre County. It has not tainted the issue for the State That is supported by the findings for reassessments. The second looks not reassessed since 1995, and Chief e-mail your question Legislature. of the joint Legislative Budget and at the statistics that trigger assess- Assessor Jerry Dann said no plans to us. It’s in the upper “As messy as it has been, he’s Finance Committee that studied ments and how they figure into state for another are in the works. right corner of the moving it forward without the property valuation and assessment budgeting formulas. “We’re waiting to see what hap- stigma of property tax increase,” and released a report in 2010. CCAP’s key issue is that reas- pens in the State Legislature,” he NACo website ... he said. “It’s framed as an equity Hill added that most counties sessments should be triggered not said. “I don’t think anyone’s excited matter, not a revenue matter, and the support a statewide reassessment by time, but rather when inequity to start anything like that until we www.NACo.org state will be more receptive to that.” process, pending resolution of the reaches a certain point. Hill es- know how we’ll have to do things.” Hill said though many counties confusing set of laws that place timates that would end up being recognize they should do a reassess- some counties in contradictory every seven years, “probably at the *Links to the Legislative Budget and ment, they’re waiting for the right situations for conducting their far end of where you see inequities Finance Committee report and discussion time, when property values stabilize, reassessments. develop,” he said. “The longer you of the Allegheny County assessment can to do one. CCAP is participating in two wait, though, the costlier it gets be found at County News online, www. “Instability in the housing mar- state House of Representatives’ anyway.” naco.org/countynews. 8 January 30, 2012 CountyNews • Get it first! Get it fast! Get it now! It’s easy ... and saves paper to boot! CountyNews Online & Email Delivery

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Model Programs From the Nation’s Counties Dakota County, Minn. Network Connects Parks, Jurisdictions

By Charlie Ban the county in terms of development, resources against federal and mu- STAFF WRITER any of the stakeholders can initiate nicipal sources will help fund a lot a project. of the projects. In the next 10 years, Getting its incor- “It’s like a shotgun shell spread- $6.7 million from the county and porated cities and ing all over the map,” Mertens said. $13.6 million from other govern- CONTENT towns on board with “The county can be a partner to ments will go to complete 51 miles a plan has helped the development, but doesn’t need of greenway trails. Dakota County, Minn. jump-start to be in the lead every time. One As various cities and municipali- development of multi-use parks way or another, the work is going ties in Dakota County start contact- across the county. ahead to fulfill the vision we all ing the county about park planning, In 2008, county residents ex- put together.” Mertens sees the greenway plan’s pressed interest in a variety of issues A new sales tax in Minnesota success. that could be addressed with a also offers more funding for open “We’re still working haphaz- stronger parks system, chief among greenspace, and Mertens said multi- ardly, but under a consistent vision,” them trail-based recreation, protec- use land is prioritized in granting of Mertens said. “Before, we wouldn’t tion of natural areas, improvement Photo courtesy of Dakota County, Minn. that money. He said many of the have heard from a city that was of water quality and more options The Dakota County Greenway Collaborative seeks to link parks and trails in projects can also be eligible for federal interested in their parks integrating for non-motorized transportation. the county, like one pictured here, into a comprehensive web of greenspace. transportation funding. into our system. Now we get calls What became the county’s park The most comprehensive effort about developers wanting capitalize system plan couldn’t be done alone, was able to develop plans for 200 That definition includes land that for outreach has been the “Greenway on a trail when planning a subdivi- however, said Senior Planner John miles of greenways that could fit in uses open space, protects the water Guidebook,” which summarizes sion. That kind of coordination is Mertens. It needed to be anchored any of the areas of the county. The supply, can be used by the public in the collaborative and defines stake- invaluable.” in a comprehensive land-use plan greenways would be interconnected, several ways for recreation and has holders’ roles and responsibilities. that addressed the unique agendas geographically and conceptually. a transportation element. It contains processes for designing (Model Programs from the Nation’s of the almost three dozen jurisdic- “We can get ahead of develop- “We had a regional trail system, greenway plans, securing funding Counties highlights Award-winning tions within the county’s borders. ment in vacant areas, or shoehorn in but now we want to make those areas and coordinating among various programs. *To access a copy of the By bringing in planning and parks in urban areas,” Meterns said. more park-like,” Mertens said. jurisdictions. Greenway Guidebook, go to Model Pro- parks staff members from the 34 “By engaging the communities in a The greenway collaborative ap- Leveraging county development grams at www.naco.org/countynews.) municipalities, state and federal shared vision of what the greenways proach has decentralized greenspace agencies, school authorities and can be, we define ‘greenway’ as some- development. Because the municipal watershed districts, Dakota County thing unique to Dakota County.” jurisdictions share involvement with NACo on the Move

» NACo Officers and Elected Officials The H.R. Doctor Is In • Lenny Eliason, NACo president, spoke about NACo and his presidential initiatives, including Healthy Counties, at the Delaware Association of Counties annual meeting in Kent County (Dover) You Only Hurt the Ones You Love Jan. 19.

The HR Doctor has spent a great more afraid for their own futures chosen. Now the very bonds of trust » NACo Staff deal of time with law enforcement than I have ever seen. and confidence in their government • Edwin Rosado, legislative director, spoke as officers and members of their The kind of fear has nothing to agencies and in the commitments of a panelist in the session “What Do Federal Cuts families. This includes county do with responding to an armed rob- government leaders are being called Mean for Your County?” at the Maryland Asso- sheriff’s deputies, city police of- bery in progress, a home invasion or into question. ciation of Counties winter meeting in Dorcester ficers, marshals, custodial officers, being on patrol at night alone. The I know a married couple, for County (Cambridge) Jan. 5. prosecutor’s investigators and others fear trend also has nothing to do example, who are great mid-career Edwin Rosado with badges and guns. with the general decline of respect cops, who are planning to leave the » Coming Up I have worked with them as their for authority in the society or the profession early as a result of this • Andrew Goldschimdt, director of member- chief administrative officer, their rise in the juvenile gang problems. fear. They are building the psycho- ship marketing, will be exhibiting on behalf of membership recruit- HR director and chief negotiator on The fear is about whether the logical and career equivalent of a ment and retention at the New York State Association of Counties behalf of the agencies in bargaining officers will have the pensions prom- 1950’s bomb shelter. They have just Legislative Conference in Albany County Jan. 30–Feb. 1. with their unions. I have seen them ised to them when they signed on. sold their house to reduce long-term On the Move is compiled by Christopher Johnson. as colleagues in the investigation Whether their benefits or pay will financial commitments and will be of wrongdoing, during periods of be cut at the very time when their renting until they can retire at the natural disaster, as they plan ahead personal options are reduced as they earliest possible moment. This, they Stay updated on NACo’s Facebook ... for retirement, manage personal reach mid-career points. hope, will legally secure the benefits tragedies and work for the general It is a fear about all of the rheto- that remain available in their 20-year good of their families. ric coming from a dysfunctional careers, despite the efforts of some With four decades of such Congress, about cutting everything leaders in their city. experience, when dangerous trends — including the number of brain If they remained in the agency, emerge it is time for me, and I hope cells present in the minds of their they would both be spectacular others, to stop and take note. Such a own members, as well as local law enforcement top leaders and trend has come into focus in the past government elected and appointed role models for many new officers. year. I have repeatedly seen strong, officials. These officers worry that it However, they are shaken by a fear brave law enforcement officers of is hard enough — and getting harder www.facebook.com/NACoDC a variety of ages and backgrounds, — to do the job which they have See H.R. DOC page 12 10 January 30, 2012 CountyNews • News From the Nation’s Counties

XALABAMA • Officials in JEFFERSON XMARYLAND COUNTY say they risk violating Gov. Martin O’Malley’s (D) federal and state laws if they cut budget proposal includes shifting re- an additional $40 million from the sponsibility for nearly $450 million FY12 budget. in teacher pensions onto counties. County departments perform The recommendation to shift federal, state or locally required pensions came from O’Malley’s functions such as elections and road state-appointed pension commis- maintenance that could be jeopar- sion, though the governor rejected dized by continued reductions to it last year, the Washington Examiner the general fund budget, County reported. Manager Tony Petelos said. Those Maryland is one of three states violations could lead to fines and that pay entirely for teacher pen- costly lawsuits, he said. sions. To balance the pension shift, The director of the county’s O’Malley will also propose that the general services department told the state pay for the teachers’ Social Birmingham Times more cutbacks Security costs, which is currently could affect the March 13 primary about $450 million. The budget elections. proposal also includes more than Demetruis Taylor, director of $360 million in school construction the county’s Human Resources funding. Department, said she fears contin- ued reductions to her departmental XMICHIGAN budget could render it unable to • Convicted felons will not have Photo courtesy of Fairfax County, Va. meet employee, organizational to disclose their criminal history XVIRGINIA and legal obligations, resulting in on a written job application for The FAIRFAX COUNTY Board of Supervisors and National War Dogs Monument Inc. gathered Jan. 17 delayed claims and liability for MUSKEGON COUNTY govern- to dedicate a monument to honor military working dogs at the county Government Center, its temporary home. interfering with such mandates ment, a change designed to level the The monument will be relocated to the county’s Animal Shelter when construction at the facility is complete. as the Family and Medical Leave playing field for formerly convicted Act, Fair Labor Standards Act and offenders. Equal Employment Opportunity The change moves the disclosure available, according to the Nebraska requirements. of felony conviction later in the Association of County Officials. In hiring process. The 24 communi- most cases, the money goes into the XCALIFORNIA ties and five states that have similar counties’ general funds. Protesting a 9 percent pay cut, policies typically require most Douglas County collects $7 FRESNO COUNTY correctional public employers to wait until the million to $9 million per year from officers, social workers and employ- interview stage to question qualified the tax, and without it would need ees of libraries and administration applicants about their criminal back- to raise property taxes to make up offices went on strike Jan. 23. ground, according to the Muskegon for the loss, Lorenz said. Supervisor Phil Larson told NBC Chronicle. “It’s devastating,” LANCAST- 47 all the departments took their County staff already has been ER COUNTY Board Member Deb cuts, with the exception of Service working on the change, and the Schorr said. “If this goes through, Employees International Union county’s online job application has there will be layoffs.” members. He said what they were been altered with the removal of the asking for wasn’t feasible so their felony conviction box. XOREGON contract expired Dec. 12, 2011, and Commissioner Alan Jager pro- Sending a police officer to a 9 percent pay cut was implemented. posed the change and hopes the respond to a mental health crisis The union filed a complaint private sector will follow suit. often can ramp up the situation. against the county, saying it broke “We should lead by example,” MULTHOMAH COUNTY is the law and failed to negotiate in Jager said. “If they can get jobs addressing that issue by having 911 good faith. right away after they get out of jail, dispatchers screen calls for possible they’re fine. If they can’t get jobs, referral to the county’s Mental XKENTUCKY they’re going back.” Health Call Center. PIKE COUNTY government “Sometimes just showing up in has gone “Hollywood” in an XNEBRASKA uniform can exacerbate things,” effort to increase the adoptions Counties have reacted swiftly, Portland Police Chief Mike Reese and fostering of animals from its vocally and negatively to the gov- said, and lead to the caller’s being limited-intake shelter. The county’s ernor’s stated desire to do away taken into custody unnecessarily. local access channel has premiered with inheritance taxes the counties Representatives of the mental XGEORGIA an “Adopt-A-Pet” TV program, receive. health community, Portland police showcasing animals currently “From the county’s perspective, and Multnomah County officials The first inductee into CLAYTON COUNTY’s Centenarian Club housed at the county shelter. it’s a horrible idea,” Joe Lorenz, brainstormed solutions over the past recently celebrated her 107th birthday, and county Commissioner Gail The monthly show began airing director of budget and finance for year. The group studied why people B. Hambrick was there to wish her well. Maggie Brown Kidd was born Jan. 11 and is shown at various DOUGLAS COUNTY, told the in mental health crisis often end up Dec. 7, 1904 and is believed to be the county’s oldest resident. times. The inaugural taping features Omaha World-Herald. “I think the in police custody. They found that “Our seniors serve as an important reminder of our history and as an 20 animals available for adoption. governor is doing this so he can say crucial information wasn’t being empowering link to our future,” Hambrick said. Volunteers from the local Humane he cut taxes without having to cut shared among law enforcement, The club is a new initiative of the county. Senior Services will oversee Society assist in getting the animals services for the state.” mental health and emergency the program and inductees will receive a free Clayton County Senior ready for their closeups, and the The state’s 93 counties received dispatch systems. Center membership with no expiration and have their photos placed on shelter’s acting director showcases nearly $42 million in proceeds from what has been named the Centenarian Wall of Honor to be located in the four-legged “celebrities.” the tax in 2007–08, the latest figures See NEWS FROM page 11 various Senior Services facilities. • CountyNews January 30, 2012 11 Financial Services News NACo’s Financial Services Center looks to 2012 The National Association of communications, joint marketing in partnership with the Wisconsin all good ideas are processed quickly Counties Financial Services Center efforts and information flow will Counties Association and U.S. and consistently. (FSC) is ready and focused for the allow this revolutionary program Communities. PFA focuses on First, the FSC Advisory Com- New Year. NACo members are to better serve all. private activity issues where there is mittee will look at more ideas and encouraged to take a look at all of no alternative issuer. In 2011, its first continue to make recommenda- our programs for their benefits to FSC Programs year, PFA issued more than $400 tions on new programs. Second, their counties and also to be aware of and Services million in bonds over 15 transac- FSC will work closely with NACo’s the support these programs provide Several areas of focus will be tions. PFA is a valuable economic Research Division and our state to NACo’s mission, benefitting all included in this effort in 2012. development tool that can move association staffs to create and counties. 1) Network of Care (NOC) is a quickly with skill to provide timely maintain a database of programs NACo FSC and Financial three-year NACo effort to provide financing to key projects. FSC will and services conducted at the state Services Corporation take responsi- a powerful outreach and service tool play the marketing and oversight association level. This database bility for four major areas of effort. purchasing and governing while for counties to serve their citizens. role in insuring that this valuable will be an open resource for our as- These areas, and their 2012 priority stretching their budgets. Whether your citizens are in need program becomes a well-known sociations to compare and contrast activities are as follows: NACo FSC will work closely of health care, social services, vet- financing tool. opportunities. with the U.S. Communities field erans services or other assistance, a 3) NACo is fortunate to be the Savings and team in strengthening relationships Network of Care site can be a key destination for a number of great Premier Corporate Retirement Sector with our national and state sponsors. link between the county and the ideas that can benefit counties Member and Corporate Best known for our 457 plan with The success of this program can be needed service. Used by more than and local government. We have a Fundraising Program Nationwide Retirement Services, leveraged further by making sure 200 counties nationwide, the NOC network of relationships that can get More than ever, the private 2012 will be a big year for retirement. that relationships are built and used tool represents a great leap forward those ideas to the right parties for sector is seeking efficient ways to Led by Lisa Cole, our chief priorities to extend the potential savings to in citizen outreach. evaluation and, if indicated, imple- learn about and market to govern- are to complete a new contract with more and more NACo members and 2) Public Finance Authority is mentation. In 2012, FSC intends to ment entities. NACo has built NRS, continue to build the NACo other local government units. Better a unique issuer of bonds created institutionalize this pipeline so that relationships with some of the most Registered Municipal Advisor, recognizable names in corporate LLC, (NACo RMA) and embark America as they seek to tailor their on intensive research and design in offerings to our members. Their the new world of public employee Sewage sludge sparks controversy support allows NACo to conduct retirement services. everything from our core legislative NACo RMA is the new regu- mission to targeted member services lated entity under which we must in Washington state county and research. conduct our solicitation activities We take our obligations to these for the deferred compensation NEWS FROM from page 10 lington is home to many corporate safely in compliance with permit sponsors very seriously and will program. This vehicle, owned by headquarters and government requirements. continue to make every effort to NACo and the state associations “We’re definitely breaking some agencies, and that the community Bigelow disagrees, saying: “Peo- trumpet the value of NACo in their who endorse the program was new ground here,” said Heeseung “is highly educated, with more than ple here feel very strongly about the government relations and market- necessitated by the Dodd-Frank Kang, the call center’s supervisor. two-thirds of the population holding enjoyment of the outdoors, and they ing efforts. Our efforts in 2012 will Act. Our 457 program, and our “This is why we’re here. Our mis- a college degree.” Raleigh, N.C. was enjoy it a lot less if they know that reflect our desire to broaden the efforts in this area don’t change. sion is to try to catch these people.” number one on the list. there’s human poop being sprayed industry spectrum, increase levels However, we will be operating in everywhere.” of support and institutionalize the a regulated environment. XSOUTH CAROLINA XWASHINGTON relationships between NACo and NACo desires to continue its Amazon Global Customer It comes down to this: Who gets XWISCONSIN sponsoring organizations. leadership in the retirement world Fulfillment is coming toSPARTAN - to say whether septic sludge can be U.S. Environmental Protection for the benefit of members and their BURG COUNTY, creating a second spread on a western WAHKIA- Agency has recognized DANE The programs above contribute a employees. New retirement plan center in the state after opening one in KUM COUNTY farm? COUNTY and its partners with significant portion of the operating models are going to be authorized LEXINGTON COUNTY last year. Last year, Wahkiakum County a 2011 Project of the Year Award budget of NACo. Managing them and mandated in the majority of Amazon.com, Inc. said the commissioners banned agricultural for its first-in-the-state efforts to strategically is our priority. The states, and counties, in most cases, 1-million-square-foot order fulfill- use of so-called biosolids, in defiance fuel county vehicles with cheaper, FSC team is ready to answer any will be affected. We will survey ment facility will invest $50 million of the state Department of Ecology cleaner-burning compressed natural questions from our members. Please and study these trends and provide in the state and create “hundreds” (DOE). County officials are worried gas (CNG) produced from landfill gas. call or email anytime. county officials with the informa- of new full time jobs. about the potential for environmen- The county and its collaborators tion they need to keep up with the “Spartanburg County is pleased tal contamination. DOE says the accepted the award for the Rodefeld Peter Torvik trends. In addition, new products to welcome Amazon as it represents county’s ban is unconstitutional and Landfill BioCNG Vehicle Fuel Proj- Managing Director/CEO, and services will emerge that may another investment by a global went to court to overturn it, The Daily ect as part of EPA’s Landfill Methane NACo Financial Services Center be an opportunity for NACo. company that realizes we are a pro- News reported. The matter is still in Outreach Program (LMOP). q202.942.4240 business community,” said David litigation. Last April, the county partnered [email protected] U.S. Communities Britt, chairman, Economic Recruit- “The argument isn’t about wheth- with several private companies that Cooperative Purchasing ment Committee of Spartanburg er or not this is dangerous. This is an specialize in turning landfill gas into Lisa Cole Alliance County. argument about who gets to respond CNG. Together they implemented Director, NACo U.S. Communities is the lead- to that danger, and how much,” said the BioCNG system, enabling the Financial Services Corporation ing purchasing cooperative for XVIRGINIA Dan Bigelow, Wahkiakum County county to fuel converted parks and q202.942.4270 local government in the U.S. Local ARLINGTON COUNTY isn’t prosecuting attorney. public works trucks with CNG that [email protected] governments have saved more than a city, but that didn’t stop Bloomberg DOE officials are confident costs 20 cents per gallon. a billion dollars using U.S Commu- Businessweek from ranking it second they will prevail. “We think the Jim Sawyer nities contracts as a key purchasing on its list of America’s Best Cities. Legislature very clearly said, let’s (News From the Nation’s Counties is Director, NACo tool. This innovative group will The list considered factors such as have a statewide program rather compiled by Charles Taylor and Charlie Financial Services Corporation continue to lead the industry in op- school performance, green space and than a county program,” said Ban, staff writers. If you have an item q202.661.8868 portunities for NACo members and cultural amenities. Ted Sturdevant, DOE director. for News From, please email ctaylor@ [email protected] all local governments to streamline Bloomberg also cited that Ar- He said biosolids can be applied naco.org or [email protected].) 12 January 30, 2012 CountyNews • Research News Child Care for County Employees With a large number of county by the county for employees who in order for them to break even children. Arlington County, Va. has employees retiring or set to retire choose any of the three child care financially. done this with Arlington Children’s in the next few years, counties are facilities. Tuition assistance may In 2009, Clackamas County, Ore. Center, which has two locations in looking for ways to attract and retain range from 10 percent to 60 percent formed a committee to explore the the county. County employees who a younger workforce. of the total tuition cost and is based idea of creating an on-site child care choose this facility get a discounted One employee benefit that coun- on family income and size. facility that would be contracted out rate as an employee benefit. ties are exploring is providing on-site “Kids at Work” has been a long to a private provider. They surveyed Additionally, there are coun- child care for county employees. running on-site child care facility county employees, discussed con- ties that have not invested in Several counties already have in Contra Costa County, Calif. In verting an existing county building permanent child care for county robust programs, and many more 1992, a small committee was set up into a child care facility, and found employees, but are willing to fill are exploring the cost and benefits to look into the financial feasibil- that about 60 employees would have a void when there is a need. An of implementing such a program. ity of a center as well as a facility to pay for their children to be cared example is counties that provide Los Angeles County has one one parent who is working at least location. After determining the idea for at the center for the facility to child care when local schools are of the largest programs in the 20 hours per week with the Fairfax was viable, a contractor was hired break even. Ultimately, the County closed due to weather conditions, country. The county has 11 child County government. In two- to remodel an existing office at Board decided to divert funding but county offices remain open. care centers and one more that parent households, the non-county the public works department. The to other projects, but Clackamas In Pinellas County, Fla., there is a is a community-based program employee must also be working or center opened in 1995 and accepts County serves as an example of a program to care for the children of that offers priority enrollment to in school a minimum of 20 hours children 8 weeks to 5 years of age. process a county should take before first-responder county employees county employees. The centers per week. Monthly child care fees Kids at Work offers a competitive making such a decision. during an emergency. This is only vary in size, but have an average can range from $52–$1,306 per tuition, but the real benefit is for Some counties have determined used when schools are closed and enrollment of approximately 60 month depending on the age of parents to have their child’s care that providing on-site child care normal child care establishments children per site. The program the child and if another child from facility conveniently located near may be too expensive or impracti- are not functioning. provides care for children 6 the family is already enrolled and their office. cal. In such cases, counties may weeks to 6 years of age. L.A. are determined based on adjusted Counties considering providing explore the idea of partnering (Research News was written by Sarah County employees are able to take family income. this added benefit must consider the with a local, certified child care Sunderman, research associate.) advantage of a benefit in which A slightly different approach has cost and whether there is enough center and providing a discount to the county contributes money to been taken in San Mateo County, demand for a child care facility county employees who enroll their the employee’s Dependant Care Calif. where the county has one on- Spending Account to help pay for site child care center at the County Job Market eligible dependent care expenses. Government Center, but has also In Fairfax County, Va., the developed a partnership with two Incivility, dysfunction & Classifieds Employees’ Child Care Center additional child care centers in the (ECCC) provides care for children county. Tuition assistance and flex- X 6 weeks to 5 years of age who have ible spending accounts are provided becoming the new HEALTH CARE TRUST ADMINISTRATOR – MONTANA ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES American way? Salary: DOQ. The Montana Association of Coun- What’s H.R. DOC from page 9 day’s service club luncheons that ties (MACo) is seeking an Administrator education is the top priority. It is not for the Health Care Trust. This position that American leadership is so lack- enough to bemoan the absence of performs and directs the marketing, in a ing in civility that our core ability jobs and blame the other party, when financial, supervisory and administra- is decaying: that is the ability to sit whatever is proposed by whichever tive duties for the Trust. For a detailed down with those with whom we party is suddenly pounced upon job description and application instruc- Seal? might disagree to craft common vi- in carnivorous attacks which can tions, please visit our website at: www. mtcounties.org. Position open until filled sions and solutions for the common become so personal that the subject by qualified candidate. Applications »Prince George’s County, Md. and long-term good. matter itself is clouded. received by Feb. 1 will receive prefer- www.princegeorgescountymd.gov When those who represent the Take note of the fear rising ence on screening. Contact Harold government, which is what the among law enforcement officers as Blattie, MACo Executive Director at Prince George’s County emerged from the blending of land within officers’ badges represent, are so well as top administrators — the 406.449.4360 or [email protected] Calvert and Charles counties in 1695. However, it wasn’t officially increasingly worried, how should ones charged with keeping a city, if you have questions. deemed a county until April 23, 1696, by an act of the General the rest of us feel? county or school board on track to Assembly. Its name was adapted from Prince George of Denmark, It is not simply a matter of solve today’s problems as well as Looking for husband of Queen Anne of England. whether pensions are out of control, tomorrow’s. Being a prisoner of fear The county surrounds the north, south and east of Washington, or budgets need to be leaner. It is a rather than a master of confidence Quality Staff? D.C. with just over 485 square miles of land, and a growing popula- matter of whether Republicans and and optimism is not good for the tion of more than 863,000. Democrats have gotten so out of country or its millions of families Get rate schedules online ... control that their behavior actually and hundreds of millions of citizens. The Prince George’s county seal, designed in 1696 by Charles works against the long-term best It was not that way when World War Beckwith of Patuxent, incorporates England’s Imperial Crown, St. interests of the community. What- II began. It was not that way when Edwards Crown. In the four corners of the seal, is the coat of arms ever each of us may think about strong leadership challenged our symbolizing Queen Anne, France and England in quarters one and the wars we are currently fighting, minds and energies to put a human four of the seal, with Scotland in the second quarter, and Ireland in the it is clear that our infrastructure is on the moon. It need not be this third. Semper Eadem, the county’s motto, translates to Ever the Same. in very poor condition, and that way now. It must not become a new Wording on the seal was changed in 1971 to read “Prince George’s education (including science, art definition of the American Way. County, Maryland.” and even civics courses) is suffering www.naco.org (If you would like your county’s seal featured, please contact Christopher as we cut programs.  Programs & Services Johnson at 202.942.4256 or [email protected].) While the rhetoric and actions of  Hire Quality Staff slashing and burning are occurring, Phil Rosenberg so are the announcements at the next The HR Doctor • www.hrdr.net