NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES ■ WASHINGTON, D.C. VOL. 39, NO. 21 ■ NOVEMBER 12, 2007 Senate boots Farm bill biggest moves to funding bill Senate fl oor back to House BY MARILINA SANZ ASSOCIATE LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR BY DARIA DANIEL AND MARILINA SANZ ASSOCIATE LEGISLATIVE DIRECTORS After months of negotiations, the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Even though House and Sen- Forestry Committee has fi nished ate conferees quickly agreed on a its work the 2007 Farm Bill, the Labor/HHS appropriations bill Food and Energy Security Act. The and the House readily approved the Senate was expected to begin debate conference agreement, the measure on the fi ve-year, $288-billion piece hit a bump when it got to the Senate of legislation Nov. 5. and has been returned to the House One of NACo’s priorities in for yet another vote. this bill is the rural development title. This title provides $400 million See APPROPS page 2 in budget authority for several initia- tives that will enhance life in rural QuickTakes communities. Mandatory funding was included for community facili- ties such as day care centers, rural hospitals and libraries. The title enhances rural broad- StatesStates withwith band initiatives and creates two thetthehe LargestLLargestargest PercentagePPercentageercentage new programs to assist rural com- ofof Foreign-bornForeign-born ResidentsResidents munities with planning grants and As smoke streams across the Pacifi c, a NOAA satellite image shows the magnitude of the wildfi res which provide technical assistance for raged in Southern California the week of Oct. 21. According to California state offi cials, at least 518,021 entrepreneurs. Mandatory funding California . . . . . 28% acres, or 800 square miles were burned in October’s wildfi re outbreak. There were seven fatalities and is also provided to help alleviate New York . . . . . 11.8% 3,177 structures destroyed. Texas ...... 9.8% See FARM BILL page 5 Florida ...... 8.9% Source: Census Bureau Report – 2003 Biden releases new Crime Bill INSIDE >> BY DONALD MURRAY outlines a new housing assistance particular emphasis on protecting SENIOR LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR program to attract and retain federal children and providing resources law enforcement offi cers. to communities to deal with pre- Sen. Joe Biden, Jr. (D-Del.), S. 2237 would establish a new crime intervention, violent crimes chairman of the Senate Subcom- National Commission on Law and gangs. mittee on Crime and Drugs, Enforcement and Administration of These include changes to Head recently released his anti-crime Justice. The commission would be Start, strengthening programs tar- package, S. 2237 — The Crime charged with reviewing the role of geting babies and the very young, Control and Prevention Act of policing in the U.S., anticipating chal- and specifi c gang abatement pro- 2007. Of particular note, the pack- lenges in policing and issuing detailed grams. It has provisions dealing with On the green frontier: there’s age includes NACo’s concept of a recommendations to Congress. The juvenile justice programs including recycling and then there’s reusing. national commission to examine U.S. attorney general would appoint grants for specialized training pro- >> Page 6 and analyze the intergovernmental its members after consulting with grams for juvenile court justices. dimensions of jailing the non- federal, state and local law enforce- S. 2237 has a title dedicated Proposed regulations threaten violent mentally ill. ment offi cials who have demonstrated to reducing recidivism and its mental health services. >> Page 2 This is a very ambitious and com- expertise in policing, counterter- impacts on communities. It takes prehensive bill. Among other things, rorism, intelligence sharing, court on improving drug control and Acts of Caring nominations coming it strengthens the Community-Ori- administration, prison management, treatment programs, and improves soon. >> Page 3 ented Policing program (primarily prisoner reentry, drug treatment or the gun control statues and addresses an urban program), authorizes more protection of civil liberties. technology crimes. More green frontier: NACo offers agents for the FBI and the Drug The bill has an entire title on energy tracking. >> Page 5 Enforcement Administration and preventing violent crime with a See CRIME page 6 2 November 12, 2007 CCountyountyNNewsews • Proposed regulations threaten county mental health systems

BY PAUL V. B EDDOE hospitalizations and several lengthy in serving their communities. of federal Medicaid for therapeutic Over time, with the intensive, ASSOCIATE LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR stays in a state psychiatric hospital. It In most states, counties — along foster care. sometimes daily support from wasn’t until Julie engaged with John- with other local authorities — are Under therapeutic foster care members of the ACT team, John David Wiebe, the executive direc- son County Mental Health Center responsible for providing essential arrangements, children are placed has learned to treat and control his tor of the Johnson County, Kan. and began receiving community- mental health, developmental dis- with foster parents who have received schizophrenia, stay on his medica- Mental Health Center, is worried. based services, such as intensive case ability and substance abuse services specialized training. By eliminating tions and out of trouble. After two New Medicaid regulations proposed management, supported education for vulnerable and disabled residents. this treatment option, the proposed and a half years, he has even been able in August by the Bush administra- and supported housing, that her life Local authorities contribute well over rule would lead to more costly to begin to repair his relationships tion would limit his department’s began to change. $15 billion to behavioral health and placements such as psychiatric in- with his family. “The real benefi t of fl exibility. Julie’s depression began to sub- developmental disability services stitutions. [programs offered under the Rehab The new rules, if implemented, side and she slowly became more in both Medicaid-match and non- Cruz Vallarta, leader of a fo- Option] is that they help people who would essentially cut off funds for hopeful about her life. With this Medicaid services. rensic case management team in have been in trouble all their lives,” the successful programs he and his newfound outlook on life and sup- In 22 states, counties either Bexar County, Texas, recalls fi rst said Vallarta. dedicated staff have developed to port from the mental health center, directly or indirectly provide a range encountering John (not his real NACo and its mental health serve the county’s approximately Julie applied and was accepted into of behavioral health services — such name) during the Hurricane Katrina affi liate the National Association 900 adults with severe and disabling college and for four and a half years as mental health, addictions, mental crisis. The police had been called of County Behavioral Health mental illness, the majority of whom worked on her bachelor’s degree. retardation and developmental dis- because John, 40 years old, six feet and Developmental Disability have long histories of extended Today, Julie is a graduate of the Uni- ability services — to 70 percent of and four inches tall, weighing 300 Directors (NACBHDD) both institutional or hospital care. versity of Kansas and is a full-time the U.S. population. pounds, was on the third fl oor of a submitted comments opposing Wiebe, who chairs NACo’s employee with a small company in In 18 states, county-sponsored local hotel throwing things at people the proposed Medicaid regulation Health Steering Committee Sub- Johnson County. behavioral health authorities ensure on the ground. changes in October. While the committee on Behavioral Health, Julie continues to struggle from delivery of substance abuse services Vallarta was able to use appropri- administration considers public puts a human face on the regulatory time to time with episodes of her to 60 percent of the U.S. population. ate crisis intervention training to comments as part of its formal controversy by telling the story of mental illness but with the support County-sponsored local authorities convince John to see a doctor the rulemaking process, Congress one of the Health Center’s clients, of her family, friends and the mental are also responsible in 15 states for the next day and avoid going to jail. has indicated its opposition to Julie (not her real name). health center she is able to live inde- delivery of developmental disability The intervention enabled him to the new regulations by including Julie’s early adulthood was pendently and maintain a hopeful services that reach more than 50 receive Forensic Assertive Com- a moratorium on its implementa- marred with the onset of a severe outlook on life. percent of the U.S. population. munity Treatment (FACT) for his tion in the bill reauthorizing the and persistent mental illness, which The proposed rule restricting In 13 states, all or some of the schizophrenia, delusions, substance State Children’s Health Insurance resulted in severe depressive episodes Medicaid rehabilitation services (or counties are responsible for child abuse and related problems. Program (SCHIP). with feelings of worthlessness and “Rehab Option” rule) would prohibit welfare and foster care. several suicide attempts. The com- covering the full range of services More than 800,000 children bination of her illness and her self- that allow individuals like Julie to receive Medicaid because they are In Case You Missed It ... medicating with alcohol and drugs live independent successful lives in in the foster care system. These resulted in homelessness and her the community. children disproportionately suffer News to Use from Past County News inability to maintain employment. And like Johnson County, county from developmental delays and >>>> Nov. 16 deadline for County Radon Outreach For years Julie struggled with her governments across the country mental health problems. The new Program illness resulting in a string of private depend upon Medicaid to assist them rules would specifi cally deny the use (Oct. 29) January is Radon Awareness Month, and to raise aware- ness during this time NACo is again conducting the County Radon Outreach Program. Workforce Investment Act funding at-risk; Ten counties will be selected to receive 200 free radon test kits to distribute in their communities in recognition of their outreach, cuts to block grant programs rejected education and mitigation efforts. Applicants are selected based on several criteria, including need APPROPS from page 1 out of unspent 2007 funds at a gov- for WIA programs in FY08. for assistance, innovative efforts at raising awareness, county radon ernor’s request. In other areas, the conferees zone and planned follow-up activities; recipients of the award will What’s In It for Counties This $245 million rescission will rejected the president’s proposal to be notifi ed by Dec. 1 and will receive their 200 free radon test kits The FY08 Labor-HHS Confer- likely come from those states with eliminate the Community Services by the end of December. ence agreement includes a $245 an excess of 30 percent in workforce Block Grant and provided $665 mil- million rescission (take-back) for carryover funds fi rst. A cut may be lion, which is $35 million above Workforce Investment Act (WIA) applied across the board if the fund- current funding. They also rejected funding from FY05 and FY06. ing from those states with carryover the president’s proposal to reduce the However, the secretary of labor is funds is not suffi cient. The conference Social Services Block Grant by $500 UPDATE: President given the authority to take the funds agreement provides no new funding million and funded it at its current level of $1.7 billion. The conferees likewise rejected a signs Internet tax NNewew SenateSenate rulerule derailsderails Labor/Labor/ Senate amendment that would have changed the formula for the Ryan moratorium bill HHHSHS appropriationsappropriations maneuvermaneuver White AIDS program. The conferees agreed on a total of $1.86 billion for There will be no new taxes on Internet access for the next A new procedural rule adopted by the Senate earlier this year the grants to local governments with seven years as the result of Congressional action on the Internet allows bills to be challenged that contain provisions not included in a signifi cant number of AIDS cases Tax Freedom Act, H.R. 3678. the original bills passed by either chamber. (Part A) and grants to states (Part Congress passed the measure late last month by wide margins In the case of the nation’s largest domestic spending bill, conferees B). The current level of funding for in both chambers. President George W. Bush signed the bill had wedded the Military Construction/Veterans Appropriations bill to Parts A and B is 1.72 billion. Oct. 31. the Labor/HHS bill. As a result, the entire package was challenged, The numbers on the conference The Internet Tax Freedom Act places a seven-year morato- the Senate failed to overturn the objection and sent only the Labor/ agreement are not expected to rium on state and local taxes on Internet access, but maintains a HHS measure back to the House. change, even though the House grandfather clause for those states already taxing such access. This new rule could affect many bills, including the next Con- has to vote on the bill again. The A moratorium from an earlier version of the tax freedom act tinuing Resolution, which is expected to be attached to the defense president has said that he will veto would have expired on Nov. 1. spending bill. the bill because it exceeds his budget request. • CCountyountyNNewsews November 12, 2007 3 NACo’s 2008 Acts of Caring program accepting nominees Program to include cash prizes for the Legacy and Youth Service Awards NACo’s 2008 Acts of Caring The awards will be presented in environmental programs, services service in its community. It is Awards will again present cash April 2008 during National County to help animals, civic education and selected from the entire fi eld of awards to the volunteer programs Government Week in Washington, recreation and parks. Acts of Caring applicants. that win the Legacy Award for D.C. in a Capitol Hill ceremony. Awards will be presented in each The Youth Service Award is Excellence, and Innovation and the All winning programs will receive of three population categories to presented to the program that best Youth Service Award. The winner etched-glass awards and recogni- ensure that large and small com- identifi es a critical need in the of the Legacy Award will receive tion from NACo and members of munities, and urban, suburban and youth community and addresses it, $1,500; the Youth Service Award Congress. rural areas all receive the recognition in part, by engaging young people winner will receive $1,000. Up to 18 programs will be Management, Elderly Services, they deserve. in service. The Acts of Caring Awards rec- recognized and deemed examples Health Services/Social Services, The Legacy Award is presented An “act of caring” is a commu- ognize the top county volunteer pro- of outstanding Acts of Caring. Libraries, and Programs for Chil- to the program that most fully em- nity service provided by a county- grams in the country. The programs Based on county size, as many as dren and Youth. bodies the spirit of volunteerism sponsored volunteer program that are honored for their community three programs will be recognized The types of programs that by addressing a unique need. This enhances or preserves the quality service and the legacy they provide in each of the following six catego- can be included in Community award is given to the top program of life. Winners will be selected by for the future. This is the ninth year ries: Community Improvement, Improvement are arts and culture, in the contest because it sets itself an independent panel of judges. for this unique awards program. Criminal Justice/Emergency historic preservation, housing, apart by providing unparalleled Any county government that is a member of NACo with an active program that meets the contest criteria is eligible to participate. A GASB seeks county input on accounting measures county program that won an Acts of Caring Award in the past two BY JULIE O’BRIEN in future issues of County News. patents and trademarks) should be that limit the useful life of an years is not eligible in 2004. LAKE COUNTY, ILL. treated as capital assets, with the intangible asset, it is considered to The deadline for entries is Friday, Elements of Financial relevant authoritative standards have an indefi nite useful life and Jan. 18, 2008. An award application 2007 has been a busy year for Statements (Concepts applying. would not be amortized. State- is available online. Go to the NACo Government Accounting Standards Statement 4) Intangible assets that are ac- ment 51 is effective for fi nancial Web site — www.naco.org — and Board (GASB). Below is some infor- GASB issued a statement on Ele- quired or created primarily for statements for periods beginning click on “Awards.” mation about a concepts statement, ments of Financial Statements at the the purpose of directly obtaining after June 15, 2009, and is generally The Acts of Caring Awards is new standards and exposure drafts end of June. Concepts statements income or profi t, however, should required to be applied retroactively. part of Counties Serve America, a on which GASB is seeking input are primarily intended to assist in be reported as investments. However, based on public comment, NACo long-term project carried out from county offi cials. establishing consistent and effective Statement 51 specifi es circum- the GASB eased the transition provi- in partnership with Freddie Mac. Look for more updates on GASB standards. This concepts statement stances that have to be met in order sions proposed in the draft standard The project’s goal is to raise public defi nes the basic building blocks of for outlays related to an internally signifi cantly. understanding and awareness about the fi nancial statements — assets, generated intangible asset to begin county government. liabilities, net position, infl ows and to be reported as a capital asset Proposed Standard for outfl ows of resources, and deferred including detailed guidance for Derivative Instruments (For more information, contact Tom President | Eric Coleman infl ows and outfl ows of resources. applying these circumstances to GASB has issued an exposure Goodman, NACo’s public affairs direc- Publisher | Larry Naake computer software. tor, at 202/942-422 or tgoodman@ Public Affairs Director | Tom Goodman See GASB page 4 Executive Editor | Beverly Anne Schlotterbeck GASB aligns pensions Second, if there are no factors naco.org.) Senior Staff Writer | Charles Taylor standards (Statement 50) Staff Writer | Elizabeth Perry GASB Statement No. 50, Pen- Graphic Artist | Jack Hernandez sion Disclosures, brings the improve- Editorial Assistant | Matthew Fellows ments in disclosure requirements on ADVERTISING STAFF retiree health insurance and other Job Market/Classifi eds representative Matthew Fellows post-employment benefi ts (OPEB) National Accounts representative to public employee pensions as well. Beverly Schlotterbeck Statement 50 more closely aligns (202) 393-6226 • FAX (202) 393-2630 Published biweekly except August by: fi nancial reporting for pensions with National Association of Counties those for OPEB and should lead to Research Foundation, Inc. 25 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. enhanced information in the notes Washington, D.C. 20001 to fi nancial statements and required (202) 393-6226 | FAX (202) 393-2630 supplementary information (RSI). E-mail | [email protected] These changes are intended Online address | www.countynews.org to help ensure that users receive The appearance of paid advertisements in County information about the funded status News in no way implies support or en dorse ment by the National As so ci a tion of Counties for any of the products, of pensions — the degree to which services or messages advertised. Peri od i cals postage suffi cient resources have been set paid at Wash ing ton D.C. and other offi ces. aside to pay future benefi ts when Mail subscriptions are $100 per year for non-members. $60 per year for non-members purchas ing multi ple cop- they come due. The statement ies. Edu ca tion al insti tu tion rate, $50 per year. Member generally is effective for fi nancial county supple men tal subscrip tions are $20 each. Send payment with order and address changes to NACo, 25 reports covering periods beginning Massachusetts Ave. N.W., Washing ton, D.C. 20001. after June 15, 2007. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Coun ty News, 25 Massachusetts Ave. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001 Intangible Asset (USPS 704-620) ■ (ISSN: 0744-9798) Guidance (Statement 51) © National Association of Counties The purpose of Statement 51 Research Foundation, Inc. is to provide consistent guidance regarding how to identify and report intangible assets. In general, intangible assets (such as easements, land use rights, computer software, 4 November 12, 2007 CCountyountyNNewsews • PProfirofi lleses iinn SServiceervice Amtrak bill passed in Senate BY ROBERT FOGEL take the train. The funding and im- of directors, and improves fi nancial SENIOR LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR provements in our bill will improve and accounting reporting proce- Donovan M. Dela Cruz Amtrak and make train travel a dures. The measure would also » The Senate has passed a six-year, more attractive option throughout end the requirement that Amtrak Council Member $11.4 billion reauthorization of the county,” said Lautenberg. achieve fi nancial self-suffi ciency Oahu County, Hawaii Amtrak. Authored by Sens. Frank The bill provides $11.4 billion and direct the federal government NACo Board of Directors Lautenberg (D-N.J.) and Trent Lott over six years to Amtrak, including to try to restructure Amtrak’s debt, (R-Miss.), S. 294 received substan- $4.9 billion for capital grants and which is currently over $3 billion. tial bipartisan support with a vote $3.3 billion in operating subsidies. The Bush administration has of 70 – 22 on fi nal passage. The The average of $1.9 billion annual stated its opposition to S. 294 but Number of years active in NACo: 5 last time Amtrak was successfully funding also includes $300 million stopped short of a veto threat. Rep. Years in public service: 17 authorized was in 1997 and since in available funds to a state or James Oberstar (D-Minn.), chair- Occupation: council member/author that legislation expired in 2003, group of states for capital grants man of the House Transportation Amtrak has been surviving on for facilities and equipment to and Infrastructure Committee, has Education: University of Oregon, bachelor’s in journalism, annual appropriations. improve existing service or develop indicated that the House Amtrak communications studies “When we give Amtrak the new service. bill is likely to be considered in The hardest thing I’ve ever done is: run for offi ce. resources it needs; more Americans The bill expands Amtrak’s board early 2008. Three people (living or dead) I’d invite to dinner: Benjamin Franklin, Lyndon B. Johnson and Tip O’Neill A dream I have is to: learn another foreign language. Draft guidance on reporting fund balances, You’d be surprised to learn that I: co-authored four books. fi nal land investment standards due soon The most adventurous thing I’ve ever done is: hike along the lava fi elds on the big island of Hawaii. GASB from page 3 to the defi nitions of governmental a Comprehensive Implementation My favorite way to relax is: hiking. fund types to bring more unifor- Guide that compiles and updates I’m most proud of: helping save the Waimea Valley, enacting draft, Accounting and Financial mity to the types of resources that previously issued guides for spe- legislation to help farmers on Oahu and promoting affordable Reporting for Derivative Instruments, are reported outside of the general cifi c standards and adds questions housing at the city level. which would require the report- fund. It also lays out different ways for standards that do not have their ing of derivative instruments at of organizing fund balances for the own guides. Every morning I read: the Star Bulletin and Honolulu Ad- their fair value in the fi nancial purpose of reporting in the balance The 2006–2007 edition reor- vertiser. statements of state and local gov- sheet. GASB expects to publish an ganizes the guide to better ac- My favorite meal is: poke and pickled onions. ernments. The proposed standard exposure draft for public review in commodate new questions and follows up on preliminary views My pet peeve is: disorganization. the fi rst quarter of 2008. employs a new numbering system that GASB published in 2006 designed to make it easier to follow My motto is: “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if and incorporates the consider- Land, other property changes from year to year. It also you were to live forever.” – M.K. Gandhi able public feedback the GASB held as investments incorporates for the fi rst time the The last book I read was: The Puka Guide. received. Many governmental entities freestanding Implementation Guide The disclosure requirements acquire and carry land and other to Statement 44 on the Statistical Sec- My favorite movie is: The Contender. have been simplifi ed, retaining the real property as part of their en- tion and the Implementation Guide My favorite music is: Amy Winehouse (currently). information that is most important dowment investments. However, to Statements 43 and 45 on Other My favorite president is: Franklin D. Roosevelt. to fi nancial statement users while land and other real property are Postemployment Benefi ts (OPEB). making it easier for governments not included within the scope All GASB publications can be to comply. of Statement 31on investments. ordered online at the GASB Web The GASB also is propos- Therefore, they are required to site, www.gasb.org. At the site, ing that the existing disclosure be reported at historical costs. On you can also download proposed HHasas yyourour ccountyounty rrespondedesponded requirements for investments in the contrary, fair value reporting standards, review current stan- GASB Statement 40 be applied for these investments is provided dards-setting projects and recent to investment derivative instru- for defi ned benefi t pension plans, pronouncements, submit technical ttoo tthehe LLUCAUCA iinvitation?nvitation? ments, rather than the hedging other post-employment retirement questions to the GASB staff, and derivative instrument disclosures benefit plans, external invest- add your name to GASB’s mailing The Census Bureau is waiting to hear from your set forth in the exposure draft. ment pools and Internal Revenue list to be notifi ed of major publica- county in response to its invitation to participate in Other signifi cant changes have Code 457 deferred compensation tions and events. the Local Update of Census Addresses (LUCA) that been made in response to the plans. As your representative to the was mailed to your government on Aug. 10. constituent commentary on the The objective of this project is Governmental Accounting Stan- preliminary views. to determine the most appropriate dards Advisory Council, I am also Responses to the invitation are due by Dec. 31, measurement attribute to report always eager to hear from you 2007. Has your county responded yet? Fund Balance Reporting land and other real property that about GASB. My e-mail address Bond raters, oversight agen- are held as investments by endow- is [email protected]; my phone If not, contact Jacqueline Byers, NACo’s director cies, legislators and taxpayer ment funds. A fi nal standard is number is 847/377-2223. of research, at [email protected] or your Census associations all use fund balance expected to be published soon. Regional Offi ce. information to make decisions. (Julie O’Brien is the controller for Lake However, the GASB has found a Comprehensive County, Ill. She is NACo’s appointee Nothing your county does around Census number of inconsistencies in the Implementation Guide to the Governmental Accounting ways that governments report their Each year the GASB publishes Standards Advisory Council.) 2010 is more important than this!!! fund balance and mismatches with the information needs of fi nancial statement users. What's NACo up to? ... Find out online ... In October 2006, the GASB issued an Invitation to Comment that considers alternative approaches. www.naco.org The document examines revisions • CCountyountyNNewsews November 12, 2007 5 NACo assistance available for energy tracking, assessment

BY SCOTT BERRY utility information for each county courthouses and easily determine • receive free training and tech- for all county buildings available ENVIRONMENTAL INTERN building. Participating counties cost-effective strategies to improve nical assistance to improve your electronically. NACo will do the rest will then receive training from this score energy performance, protect the saving your staff time and money. Counties interested in reducing NACo to continue to maintain and • earn an ENERGY STAR label environment and save taxpayer their energy consumption should update this data, as well as tips for to display on any offi ce building or dollars. (For more information on the EN- take a look at a new and free tool improvement. courthouse found to be in the top To participate, you must have ERGY STAR Challenge, contact that can help them measure their NACo will: 25 percent of energy performing your past 12 – 16 months of energy Scott Berry at [email protected] or energy consumption. Recent • establish a cost-free user ac- buildings in the country, and usage data (from your utility bills) 202/942-4274.) upgrades to ENERGY STAR’s count for your county in Portfolio Portfolio Manager tool allow Manager counties to easily and quickly track • input your county’s building and assess the energy use of their information and energy data into NACIO winter workshop features facilities. this online tool, and This free online tool helps • teach you how to maintain your counties measure energy use in any data using the Portfolio Manager Emmy-award-winning TV journalist building and calculate fl uctuations tool. NACIO, the National Associa- In addition to winning an Emmy is the roundtable discussion on the over time. It provides similar track- By participating, your county tion of County Information Offi - award, Crilley has been the recipient second day of the conference,” said ing and calculation for water usage will be able to: cers, will hold a Winter Workshop of the National Headliners Award, Jane LeMaster, NACIO president and net greenhouse gas emissions. • evaluate your county’s energy for communications professionals the Edward R. Murrow Award and and administration division direc- On the macro level, the Portfolio use and determine comparisons on Dec. 4 and 5 in Waxahachie, the Thurgood Marshall Award. In tor for the Gwinnett County (Ga.) Manager can compare a county’s between your county buildings Texas. 2004, he was named “The Best TV Department of Transportation. energy performance to similar • compare the energy perfor- “This is a short educational Reporter in the State” by the Texas “That’s going to be a great oppor- buildings around the country, as- mance of your offi ce buildings and conference that is designed to be Associated Press. tunity for people to really put their signing a rating of 1–100. Buildings courthouses to similar buildings both highly affordable and highly “We are packing a lot of infor- heads together and discuss problems with a score of 75 or higher are throughout the country informative,” said Diana Buckley, mation into this one-and-a-half and ideas, and everyone is bound eligible for an ENERGY STAR • easily and quickly determine Region 3 director for NACIO and day conference,” Buckley added. to come away with something label. utility billing errors over a period communications director for Ellis “Attendees will be able to choose useful.” NACo is offering a one-time of time County, Texas. from as many as three presentations LeMaster said NACIO leaders beginner’s startup assistance pro- • receive an ENERGY STAR The workshop’s featured speaker during each breakout session.” hope the conference will become gram to help enter the necessary rating for your offi ce buildings and is Emmy-award-winning broadcast In addition to Crilley’s presenta- an annual event. journalist Jeff Crilley, author of tion on how to get free publicity, “We are very much interested How to get FREE PUBLICITY. With speakers will offer insights on grant in offering short, affordable edu- a number of years in front of the writing, two-way communications cational opportunities at various Bill would expand food stamp camera in the Dallas news market, with the public, the use of video on a locations throughout the country,” Crilley has also appeared on national county Web site, talking to the media, she said. “This is something that is program for seniors, families news and television programs such dangerous weather communication really benefi cial to our members.” as CNN, FOX News, the Discovery and delivering on the expectations of Waxahachie is located approxi- FARM BILL from page 1 eligibility out of every 36 months, Channel, Good Morning America and your organization. but states would have the option the CBS Early Show. “One of the really great things See NACIO page 9 the current backlog for building or to keep the three-month eligibil- expanding wastewater treatment ity. In addition to these and other plants. food stamp changes, the nutrition title increases the National School Food stamps Lunch Act’s Food and Vegetable The nutrition title expands the Program so that each state and the food stamp program in several District of Columbia are entitled ways. The current asset limit, which to a minimum grant of 1 percent is $2,000 or $3,000 for households of the total funds. with elderly or disabled members, Congressional leaders are hop- would be indexed for inflation ing for a quick conference meeting at $100 increments. There have between the House and Senate, but been reports since the mark-up there may be several obstacles along that Committee Chairman Tom the way including multiple amend- Harkin (D-Iowa) is planning to ments that may signifi cantly slow add funds in the fl oor manager’s the process. For example, Majority amendments to increase the asset Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) intends limit even further. to add the AgJobs bill to the farm The nutrition title also increases bill, which could be a deal-breaker. the standard to $140 per family This bill would establish a path and indexes it for infl ation. The to legalization for undocumented dependent and childcare deduction agricultural industry workers. would increase to $175 a month for It’s also possible that the so-called dependent care and $200 a month FRESH bill would be added to the for children under age 2. IRAs and farm bill. This bill would make education savings accounts would be major changes in the farm subsi- exempt from the asset limit; 401(k) dies programs and divert funds to accounts are already exempt. The conservation and nutrition. minimum monthly benefi t would If debate on the farm bill drags increase from $10 to $12 and would on, the short-term continuing reso- be indexed for infl ation. lution that expires in mid-November The time limit for single unem- which funds the Food Stamp pro- ployed adults would change from gram and other farm programs three months to six months of would need to be extended again. 6 November 12, 2007 CCountyountyNNewsews • County coupon programs promote thrift shopping, reuse

BY CHARLES TAYLOR promotion through the coupon Further, she said, she gets SENIOR STAFF WRITER book. Hennepin County benefi ts more coupon shoppers from the by diverting waste from local land- the Choose to Reuse program Eco-friendly consumers know fi lls: The county estimates that 32 than when she pays to advertise the Three Rs are reduce, recycle million pounds of usable items are in coupon books, which can be and reuse. And, increasingly, county discarded each year. “spendy” in the local vernacular environmental and solid waste for expensive. managers are encouraging — and Timmons said of participat- even offering incentives — for the ing retailers, “They’ve been very “third R.” appreciative of the county paying During Hennepin County, attention to how their business does Minn.’s Choose to Reuse Month, support environmental messages, shoppers can — as the county’s Web and they like being recognized for site touts — “Save Cash, Save the that as well.” Planet! Get Great Stuff ” using a While Hennepin’s program has coupon booklet that offers discounts been a success, a similar effort in on merchandise purchased from 80 Consumer discounts can range King County, Wash. is retooling local retailers. Participating shops from 10 percent off home furnish- its focus. King County is merg- include vintage clothing stores, ings at a consignment shop to $5 ing its EcoDeals, reuse-oriented consignment shops, second-hand off a $20 purchase at a vintage coupon program into its larger book stores and equipment rental clothing store, according to Angie Photo courtesy of Hennepin County, Minn. eco-consumer program, which has shops, among others. Timmons, a senior planning analyst Hennepin County, Minn. Commissioner Gail Dorfman “walks the talk” more of a focus on education. “Residents and businesses see it as in the county’s Environmental of promoting reuse by shopping at a thrift store. She says the county’s King County estimates that 75 a fun and economical way to be smart Services Department. Participation Choose to Reuse program saves landfi ll space “by encouraging residents percent of the items sent to landfi lls about the future of our planet,” said in Choose to Reuse is free. to recycle, reuse, repair and exchange used goods.” still have economic value, according County Commissioner Gail Dorf- The program, now in its sixth to the Web site www.ecodeals.org. man, who supports the program in year, operates on a budget of could also be downloaded from the reported new customers to their EcoDeals was designed to provide theory and in practice — as a vintage $50,000 and has grown dramati- program’s Web site. stores because of the promotion, consumers with information about clothing store shopper. cally, from eight retailers in its fi rst Data is still being collected and Timmons said. environmental practices, products The program benefi ts buyers, year to this year’s 80 businesses analyzed for 2007; however, last Cheryl Weller runs the Look and services — and substantial sellers and the county. By using with 124 locations throughout the year’s participation was an improve- Again Consignment shop in Bloom- discounts with downloadable the coupons at participating retail- county. This year, the county printed ment over 2005. ington, Minn. and has participated coupons. ers, consumers save money and 20,000 coupon booklets — on 100 In 2006, 3,400 coupons were re- in the program for at least three “We weren’t seeing a big payback help divert waste or delay the time percent recycled paper, with soy deemed at participating businesses; years. “Retail’s down all over,” she in terms of people downloading when it will be tossed. Retailers inks, of course — for the program 47 percent of participants reported said, “and we’re right on the bottom coupons,” said Patti Southard, see increased business and get free which ended Oct. 31. Coupons an increase in sales and 79 percent line, so it did help us this year.” project manager for King County GreenTools. “Our constituents were really more interested in education than they were in a coupon,” which Biden bill includes NACo-backed intergovernmental was borne out in a survey conducted earlier this year. commission on jailing mentally ill Looking at the area’s demo- graphics, the county identifi ed a CRIME from page 1 programs would be more benefi cial In addition to local governments people for being mentally ill,” group it calls “recreational environ- for those suffering from mental and the mental health community, Janes said. “The societal and dol- mentalists” — residents between the The Commission on the illnesses charged with nonviolent NACo’s resolution highlighted the lar cost of jailing the mentally ill ages of 21 and 35 who care about Non-violent Mentally Ill offenses and less costly for county importance of other key constitu- is staggering, when what is really environmental issues but who don’t Biden included in his bill an taxpayers. encies such as the National Sher- called for are treatment programs. always take action. important commission proposed Five years ago, President George iffs’ Association and the National Let’s put an end to this national The surveys also showed that by NACo. A major objective of W. Bush appointed a 22-member District Attorneys Association disgrace.” residents appear to be more inter- the commission would be to bring New Freedom Commission on serving on the commission. ested in having a framework to together local, state and federal Mental Health to analyze the na- Lisa Naito, chair of NACo’s Funding for diversion help them make decisions rather governments to explore with the tion’s mental health system. Only Justice and Public Safety Steering of the mentally ill than help them make purchases, mental health community the in- one commission member was an Committee and a Multnomah In a related development, the Southard said. tergovernmental aspects of jailing elected offi cial (a state senator from County, Ore. commissioner, House Subcommittee on Crime, Transitioning away from Eco- the nonviolent mentally ill. Nevada). While the commission’s said, “A national commission Terrorism and Homeland Security Deals as a coupon Web site was A Bureau of Justice Statistics report received favorable reviews, appointed by the attorney general has expanded grants for the diver- made easier because residents aren’t (BJS) report released in September its focus did not provide any serious of the United States could focus sion and mental health treatment left high and dry. Seattle and King 2006, Mental Health Problems of analysis of persons with mental ill- attention on the intergovernmen- of jail and prison inmates. County participate in a national Prison and Jail Inmates, found that ness in jail, nor did it examine with tal aspects of the crisis as well as H.R. 3992, which was approved program called EcoMetro, which 24 percent of jail inmates and 15 any depth the intergovernmental the pressing need for providing by voice vote Nov. 1, would autho- provides information on local ways percent of prison inmates “reported implications of the crisis. comprehensive care in the com- rize $75 million each fi scal year, to live and buy “green” — and offers symptoms that met the criteria for a NACo unanimously adopted a munity.” 2008 to 2013. Under current law a coupon book. psychotic disorder.” With BJS also resolution in 2006 and 2007, call- Lee County, Fla. Commis- (P.L. 108-414) the authorization Southard concluded, “I think estimating that 9 million different ing for the creation of a national sioner Bob Janes, chair of NACo’s is $50 million annually. that we’re better positioned for the people will enter county jails each commission to study and make Health Committee, noted that “by The new program will provide kind of education that we provide, to year, it now appears very likely recommendations on the jailing keeping the mentally ill within special focus on female inmates, not be in the retail game anyway. that more than 2 million psychotic of the nonviolent mentally ill in the health and human services treatment coordination within a “Helping people identify their individuals are being housed in county jails and state prisons. As system, counties would be better state, including information shar- core values and their decision- county jails annually. the resolution states, “The nation’s able to monitor their condition and ing between agencies; screening, making and working on behavioral NACo believes that implement- local jails are increasingly becom- provide treatment, if needed. The identifi cation and assessment of modifi cation to me is a more impor- ing a wide range of community- ing the dumping grounds for the public safety is better served.” mentally ill inmates and the coor- tant role for governments to play, and based health and human services mentally ill.” “It is not appropriate to punish dination of post-release services. let retailers take care of the rest.” • CCountyountyNNewsews November 12, 2007 7 Financial Services News The H.R. Doctor Is In Being Prepared Waist Management A recent routine visit for a medi- problem will lead to extraordinarily and changing statistics cited in That’s the name of the game in to peruse. Access is obtained by cal check-up required that the HR serious and sad consequences. The this article, it is very possible to be today’s world. calling 888/745-6486 and telling Doctor be weighed in. While my trend is clear. The consequences are better waist managers. It begins not It doesn’t matter if the threat is the customer service representa- weight hasn’t fl uctuated for years, I already appearing. around the tummy, but inside our from a person or group of people tive your agency wants to use this nonetheless found my doctor/friend, Perhaps the saddest consequence brains and our spirits. Do not be or Mother Nature. Disasters happen U.S. Communities contract. Any as well, as the beautiful HR Doctor of all is that the next generation may the parents of children who grow when people least expect them. public agency may access this daughter Rachel, also “weighing in” be the fi rst one in our history to have up addicted to television. Be the In fall 2005, Fairfax County, Va. contract without cost by register- on the fact that I could do extremely a shorter life-span than that of their parents of children who are active awarded a contract to Hagemeyer ing online with U.S. Communities well with fewer pounds on my body parents. in the community and get up off the North America to supply homeland (www.uscommunities.org). — preferably yanked away from the All the drugs marketed mas- couch. Eat better, exercise more; security and disaster recovery goods “We have found the contract to midsection. These professionals are, sively during all that television- become involved in the society to counties associated with NACo be extremely useful in homeland of course, correct. watching time are stop-gap mea- more as a volunteer and as a friend. and U.S. Communities. security grants,” said Shannon While this writer is not obese — sures. Obesity leads to diabetes Make each day a new opportunity A $1.8 billion company with Brown, purchasing agent for Dal- at least not yet — America is not — the disease of the 21st century. to improve your own personal waist locations throughout Canada, the las County, Texas. “The other area only the land of the free and home It leads to coronary artery disease. management. U.S. and Mexico, Hagemeyer is is bioterrorism programs which of the brave, it is increasingly the When combined with smoking, Give these things a try and see if a subsidiary of Hagemeyer NV, land of the obese and home of the it contributes to lung disorders. you are not feeling better and con- a $6.2 billion global distribution overeater. More than 60 percent of Beyond all that, it leads to a de- tributing more in just a few weeks. company based in Naarden, The adult Americans are overweight cline in our desire to be active on If you can’t buy a dog like the HR Netherlands. Disasters happen when (i.e., a body mass index greater than a sustained basis in life. The more dog Kamala, buy a pedometer. The supplies Hagemeyer can people least expect 25). That is a growing number and active a person is physically, the The answer to waist manage- help an agency acquire are essential them. refl ects a combination of changes in more engaged they are likely to be ment in America is action and ac- for being prepared for disaster, along our diet, in our lifestyle and in our in civic activities, including volun- ceptance of personal responsibility. with everyday tools and items to lack of consistent exercise. teerism, interacting with neighbors At this point, the HR Doctor will help recover after disaster strikes. The September 2007 issue of and friends, and more. be leaving for lunch. It will be broc- When hurricanes threatened Health and Human Services does. the Smithsonian Magazine cited The HR consequences are also coli and salmon instead of a double southern Texas this year, Hage- [Hagemeyer’s] catalog offers a several statistics that support what present in the forms of workplace cheeseburger!!! meyer was asked to come up with wide variety of items like masks, truly represents a serious failure absenteeism, increases in health about 10,000 prepackaged meals. gowns and those types of things. of Americans to practice effective insurance costs, reductions in These aren’t the traditional ready- They have a large breadth of items waist management. The Centers productivity and more. Phil Rosenberg to-eat meals with the high calorie that are available.” for Disease Control notes that the Despite all of the diffi culties The HR Doctor • www.hrdr.net count the military is known for, Dallas County spent more average adult weighed nearly 10 but instead ones that can sit on a than $200,000 on radios that al- percent more in 2003 that in the shelf for fi ve years before going bad, low different agencies to talk with 1980s. Males had an average weight have minimal sodium and about one another. This interoperability of 168 pounds back then and about 300 calories. is a cornerstone requirement for 180 pounds now. The weight of the What’s Dave Robinson, a manager of public agency communications average American female has gone government sales for Hagemeyer, during times of crisis. from 142 pounds to 152 pounds. says they even taste good. An “We were able to get them A similar growth is present in the in a envelope of salt water reacts with through Hagemeyer at better pric- weight of our children. the Styrofoam-metal tray to create ing. It saved us from having to go The Smithsonian noted that in the steam to heat the food. out for bid,” Brown said. National Football League in 1976, Seal? “At trade shows we let people try Having the contract in place only three players weighed more than them,” Robinson said. “They are ba- often means faster turnaround 300 pounds. By 2006, 570 players sic meals, but it would be survival.” time because the bidding process exceeded that “milestone” (or is it Maricopa County, Ariz. Beef stroganoff and spaghetti are is not necessary. Plus, Hagemeyer a millstone)? We exercise less, eat » some of the entrees. is able to provide goods on short more and watch more television — www.maricopa.gov With much of the western U.S. notice. Grants that counties six hours and 45 minutes a day on The fi rst county of the origi- having been on fi re this summer and receive often come with strings average in 1980, versus eight hours nal four in Arizona, Maricopa was offi cially established on Feb. fall, Hagemeyer was able to provide attached, like needing to spend the and 11 minutes a day today. 17, 1871. It was named in honor of the Maricopa Indians, who an array of wildland fi refi ghting tools money in a limited time period, so Right along with those lifestyle were known to have inhabited the area as early as 1775. to agencies. It could be as simple as the Hagemeyer contract ensures changes, which have “super-sized” Maricopa County’s seal features the state fl ower, the saguaro cactus shovels, picks and rakes. Counties the grant stipulations are met. America, is the fact that many of blossom, at the top center of the seal. Underneath this is a shield always need items like self-contained Their grant-tracking service is an our possessions have also grown with several symbols that represent the county. In the upper left of breathing apparatus for fi refi ghters. added value to public agencies in size. the shield are scales, which represent Maricopa’s legal services. Mobile command centers are more using Department of Homeland Our cars weigh more, even though Across from this is a highway leading to a dam with mountains complex tools of the trade that Security grants. some of the materials that make up in the background; this represents Maricopa’s scenic lands, roadways Hagemeyer can provide. Brown said the Hagemeyer our cars are lighter. The number and excellent fl ood-control systems “We have sold boats to Mis- contract ensures her county can of square feet in the average house Underneath the highway is the caduceus, an ancient astrological sissippi and scuba diving gear for spend all of the money in the per person has nearly tripled since symbol associated with the Greek god Hermes, which represents water rescue teams,” Robinson said. allotted time — and usually for 1950. The size of our refrigerators, the health services of Maricopa County. “We’ve sold hovercraft that can be less money. our television screens, even funeral To the left of the caduceus is a tree with a horse and rider, symbols used on water or ice.” The process is designed as caskets has increased. If you have any of Maricopa’s many parks and recreational activities. Hagemeyer works with more a better way of using taxpayer doubt about America’s expansion, The shield is fl anked on both sides by two saguaro cactuses, than 50,000 manufacturers who dollars in both time spent on visit any of the super-stores and see which are found in abundance throughout Maricopa County and have more than 80,000 products in obtaining the supplies and actual the staggeringly huge facilities they most of Arizona. 2,200 categories. cost of the goods. represent. (If you would like your county’s seal featured, please contact Matthew About 10,000 items are on Hage- Failure to control America’s Fellows at 202/942-4256 or [email protected].) meyer’s Web site for interested parties See FS NEWS page 10 burgeoning waist management 8 November 12, 2007 CCountyountyNNewsews • News From the Nation’s Counties

XARIZONA businesses to see what these unique, city of Minneapolis and Hennepin 123-year-old SENECA COUNTY part of the Rivers of Steel National MARICOPA COUNTY plans historic properties have to offer,” County’s efforts to end homeless- Courthouse. Heritage Area, the Pittsburgh Post- to hire and train nearly 100 new said County Executive Chris Coons. ness by 2016, said Cathy ten Broeke, Earlier this year, county commis- Gazette reported. employees to help combat air pollu- “Being a curator is a way to preserve the city-county coordinator to end sioners voted 2-1 to demolish the Rivers of Steel refers to southwest tion, the Arizona Republic reported. our past and enjoy that history homelessness. building; but Gov. Ted Strickland Pennsylvania’s historical ties to the The Board of Supervisors re- each day.” “We have volunteer activities, blocked immediate action with a U.S. steel industry; the designation cently approved the new positions • SUSSEX COUNTY’s new educational resources, policy issues temporary stay of demolition. could mean new revenue sources for — mostly dust inspectors — for the “clean hands” ordinance has noth- and more on this Web site,” ten At a recent meeting of pres- tourism and preservation projects county’s Air Quality department. ing to do with stopping the spread Broeke said. ervationists, participants said the in the county. It was one of several measures the of germs. building’s advocates need to take “Here’s the long and short of it,” board took to help reduce airborne The county recently passed a XNEW YORK their case to the public. said Butler County Commissioner particulate matter known as PM-10 law requiring residents and prop- Officials in NASSAU and “It’s about getting back to our James Kennedy, “It could mean (particles measuring 10 microns — erty owners applying for permits SUFFOLK counties recently kindergarten days,” said County more opportunities for federal and one-millionth of a meter — or less). or other services to be current on hosted health summits on how to Commissioner Mike Bridinger, who state money.” The heritage area PM-10 can aggravate illnesses such their fi nancial obligations to the combat a drug-resistant staph in- wants to save the courthouse. “Let’s currently includes the counties of as bronchitis and asthma and poses local government. fection known as MRSA, Newsday show and tell.” Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, risks to normally healthy people. Prior to the ordinance, appli- reported. Added Kerry Chartkoff, his- Fayette, Greene, Washington and Nineteen miles of dirt roads will cants could apply for and receive The efforts have been aimed torian for the Michigan State Westmoreland. also be paved over the next four years building permits, variances, zoning primarily at school-age popula- Capitol Building, “You have to Goals for heritage development as part of the dust-reduction effort. approvals and other services, despite tions, where recent infections have explain to your constituency in Butler County include: increas- The county’s plan to combat delinquencies. been reported. At least three-dozen and your community why they ing heritage tourism, preserving or PM-10 will cost $11 million this “This comes down to a matter of cases have been reported in the two should care about this building.” reusing historic properties where year and up to $13 million annu- fairness,” said County Administra- counties. The courthouse and Michigan’s possible and assisting cultural ally in out-years, until the region’s tor David B. Baker. “It is not right for In Nassau, Health Department capitol were designed by the same groups who wish to maintain and air quality complies with federal someone who is in arrears to benefi t offi cials held an informational meet- architect, Elijah Myers. share with others their traditional guidelines. from the very services their taxes and ing with school superintendents. arts and skills, according to river- fees would help provide. Most of all, The panel included a physician, XPENNSYLVANIA sofsteel.com. XCALIFORNIA it is unfair to those county residents an infection control nurse and an Pending congressional approval, Twenty-fi ve percent of suicides and property owners who have duti- environmental specialist. BUTLER COUNTY will become See NEWS FROM page 9 committed in PLACER COUNTY fully met their obligations.” Some commonly prescribed anti- are among those ages 65 and older, biotics are ineffective against MRSA said Sheriff Edward Bonner, and XINDIANA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus his office is touting prevention When the nation recently aureus); however, the infection does NACo on the Move services. switched from daylight-saving respond to others. Low-income seniors in the area, back to standard time, fi ve Indiana »NACo Officers and County Officials especially, have few places to turn counties turned back the clock 19 XNORTH CAROLINA NACo President Eric Coleman spoke at the Alaska Municipal if they’re battling depression or sui- months. The National Association of League Annual Conference Nov. 8 on what NACo can do for cidal tendencies, according to the On Nov. 4, KNOX, DAVIESS, Railroad Passengers recently hon- Alaska boroughs and spoke at the Virginia Association of Counties Sierra Sun, citing a county report. DUBOIS, PIKE and MARTIN ored MECKENBURG COUNTY, Annual Conference on NACo activities and priorities for 2008 on County offi cials said help is counties changed from Central time the city of Charlotte and the state of Nov. 12. available, but often times people to Eastern time — right back where North Carolina for their efforts on are afraid to ask. “Information they had been up until April 2006. behalf of rail passenger service. »NACo Staff about resources and support is one That’s when the U.S. Department George Chilson, president Chief Information Offi cer Bert Jarreau gave of our best preventative tools,” said of Transportation — at the counties’ of NARP, said, “By combining a presentation entitled “Vendor Collaboration Maureen Bauman, the county’s request — allowed them to switch thoughtful land-use policies with Strategies” Oct. 22 at the Metropolitan Informa- mental health director. to Central time. investments in intercity, urban tion Exchange (MIX) Annual Conference in San Resources include the county’s However, after numerous com- and regional passenger rail, these Antonio, Texas. MIX is a group of chief informa- 24-hour response line and suicide plaints that the earlier time was public agencies are providing the tion offi cers of large local governments dedicated hotlines in three cities within the inconvenient, the counties asked fast-growing Charlotte area with a to learning and sharing. Bert Jarreau county, and Placer County’s Senior DOT for permission to change back, streamlined transportation system Peer Counseling Program — where according to the Courier & Press. that meets the needs of residents, Program Director Abby Friedman presented NACo’s Green seniors can call directly and ask for DOT determined that the fi ve businesses, and visitors.” Government Initiative to the Maryland Association of County assistance or a family member or counties, who petitioned jointly, NARP also commended Char- Administrators and Attorneys in Annapolis Oct. 25. neighbor can call on their behalf. demonstrated the benefi t of moving lotte and Mecklenburg County for to Eastern time based on the counties’ incorporating light and commuter Rocky Lopes, project manager, spoke at the International Asso- XDELAWARE economic ties, schooling, recreation rail “into an integrated transpor- ciation of Emergency Managers National Conference in Reno, Nev. • NEW CASTLE COUNTY and regional connections. tation network complementing Oct. 12 on disaster preparedness for under-reached populations. is seeking proposals from residents intercity passenger rail.” A national, and local organizations interested XMINNESOTA citizen-based organization, NARP Community Services Senior Associate Christina Rowland and in rehabilitating and using historic A new HENNEPIN COUNTY advocates for increased use of trains Casey Dillon, program assistant, helped lead a daylong dialogue county-owned facilities. Web site aims to achieve the “reach- to address energy, congestion and on opportunities for youth obesity prevention with commissioners Through a new curatorship able goal” of ending homelessness climate change issues. and key community stakeholders from Hillsdale, Branch and St. program, individuals and public, by getting citizens involved. “North Carolina is showing Joseph counties in Coldwater, Mich. Oct. 30. private or nonprofi t organization Visitors to www.HeadingHome- that not only is our vision emi- can donate their time and fi nancial Hennepin.org can learn steps to nently achievable, it is actually Erik Johnston, community services associate, helped lead a resources to rehabilitate and restore prevent homelessness, watch a short being achieved in some parts of the training session for county offi cials and their partners on Energizing historic buildings on New Castle movie, Land of 10,000 Homeless, country,” said Ross Capon, NARP’s Entrepreneurs in Bismarck, N.D. Oct. 24. County property in exchange for link to more than 100 resources executive director. NACo offered the training through a partnership with the North long-term tax-free and rent-free use and learn how to reach out to the Dakota Association of Counties Institute of Local Government, of the building. homeless in meaningful ways, the XOHIO W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the Rural Policy Research Institute “I want to encourage motivated county said. “Show and tell” could be Center for Rural Entrepreneurship. New Castle County residents and The site is a new tool in the important to the future of the • CCountyountyNNewsews November 12, 2007 9

Model Programs FROM THE NATION'S COUNTIES

was convincing landlords to take a is about 75 slots, and there’s a two Rental program fi nds housing for chance on the program’s clientele. to three month waiting list — not as The Housing Authority’s Janice long as it sounds, explains Steadman, Kimball explains, “When we started, when one considers it can take 18 Salt Lake County’s homeless everybody was a little bit apprehen- months to two years to get into other sive about how many problems we county public housing. BY CHARLES TAYLOR homeless services coordinator, says, budget of $550,000. Corroon says were going to have with folks once we Clients are required to pay from SENIOR STAFF WRITER “The thought was: could we get the county council plans to increase got them into housing.” In particular, $50 per month to 30 percent of some money, provide these people its contribution next year. landlords were concerned about their monthly salary toward their Like many communities around with housing, surround them with In putting together the program, damage to their units. To address rental cost. The going rate for a one- the country, Salt Lake County, supportive services — and will that Steadman says it was important to this, the county created a $10,000 bedroom apartment in Salt Lake Utah wants to end homelessness. make a difference in their lives?” bring the right partners to the table. fund to pay for repairs; to date, it’s County is about $600 per month, In late 2005, it joined with regional The program appears to be do- The county’s housing authority hasn’t been tapped. including utilities, according to partners to adopt a 10-Year Plan to ing just that. County offi cials say “knows housing,” so it obviously Prospective tenants are screened county-supplied data. End Chronic Homelessness. 80 percent of participants in HARP would play a major role. The author- by the Housing Authority and must In addition to saving clients “Humans have some basic needs, remain in subsidized housing or have ity was tapped to be the agency that agree to work with case managers. money, the program also fi nancially and housing is one of them,” says Salt made the transition in to permanent would locate and manage housing Kimball and her staff also help clients benefi ts the county. For example, the Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon. housing. Anecdotal evidence is also for HARP, because of its experience with administrative tasks, such as monthly cost to house a prisoner in “And we’ve learned that the stabil- encouraging. as an owner of public housing and fi lling out applications for housing the county jail is about $2,300; HARP ity that housing brings is a critical Corroon says, “We’ve seen people with the Section 8 program. and getting their leases signed. Those costs about $1,050 a month, which component to ending homelessness who have been on the streets for years Another key to the program’s accepted into the program must agree includes housing, case management in our county.” now living in a stable environment. success, adds Steadman, is working to work with case managers. and treatment services. As part of that effort — and Some of them are now at a point with local landlords to get people into Working through nonprofit For those reasons, and more, starting with existing federal funds where they’re fi nding steady jobs, existing units — rather than relying partners, case managers help clients Kimball thinks HARP is “a real, — the county created the Homeless which is something that they haven’t on new construction to meet housing arrange for furniture and other workable model” worth replicating Assistance Rental Program (HARP) seen in years.” demand. household items and provide mov- more broadly. in early 2006 to try to break the cycle Begun in 2006, HARP was “I don’t want to ever underesti- ing assistance. “Whenever possible, “It’s expensive to build housing,” of homelessness for particularly initially funded using $300,000 in mate the importance and how valu- family, churches and other supportive she says, “and I’m not sure we’ll build vulnerable populations: ex-offenders, HOME program money from the able landlords are to stand up and say, friends are organizations are used to enough housing to meet the needs, people with mental health or sub- U.S. Department of Housing and ‘I’m willing to have these people in my help the client with the transition into so if you can use some of the market stance abuse problems and young Urban Development (HUD). Since units,’” he emphasizes. “They’re just housing,” Kimball said. housing, it makes sense.” people aging-out of foster care. then, the county council provided an incredible partner in this.” Because HOME funds are used, For more information about Salt Kerry Steadman, the county’s another $250,000, for a total annual One of HARP’s initial challenges applicants receiving a subsidy can Lake County’s HARP program, con- earn no more than 80 percent of tact Steadman at [email protected] the area median income (AMI). or Kimball at [email protected]. Those making more can participate Counties nix $18B transportation measure in the program, but without being (Model Programs from the Nation’s subsidized. Another condition of the Counties highlights Achievement Award- NEWS FROM from page 8 one-stop resource for farmers, so split evenly between Snohomish program is that renters cannot have winning programs. For more information they can focus on their business and Pierce counties. been convicted of producing meth on this and other NACo Achievement Nationwide, Congress has cre- instead of how to stay in business,” in a public housing unit nor be on a Award winners, visit NACo’s Web site, ated 37 National Heritage Areas said County Council Member XWEST VIRGINIA sexual predator list. www.naco.org @ Resource Library @ since 1996 — areas in which Calvin Goings. Leaders from several counties The program’s current capacity Model County Programs.) conservation, interpretation and Added Council Member Shawn met recently to discuss their 2008 other activities are managed by Bunney: “Farmers are a dying legislative agenda, and annexation partnerships among federal, state, breed, and this is our last chance was a hot topic, West Virginia and local governments and the to throw them a life ring.” Metro News Network reported. NACIO hosts winter workshop private sector. • Voters in KING, PIERCE In recent years, a change in and SNOHOMISH counties have state law weakened the say that for county communicators XWASHINGTON rejected an $18 billion roads and county commissioners have in • Call her a “farmbudsman.” transit measure, Proposition 1, the municipalities’ annexation efforts. NACIO from page 5 new Hampton Inn and Suites, PIERCE COUNTY has a created Associated Press reported. KANAWHA COUNTY Commis- a few short steps away from the new position to help support the Prop. 1 would have increased sion President Kent Carper said mately 30 miles south of Dallas, Civic Center where meetings will area’s agricultural industry. the three counties’ sales and car county governments are “outraged” less than an hour’s drive from both be held. “My mission is to motivate taxes to fi nance bonds for $7 billion because cities are using the law to DFW International Airport and “This conference is one you policy makers, consumers and in roads improvements and nearly gobble up unincorporated areas. Love Field. Sandwiched between don’t want to miss,” Buckley said. farmers to make choices that allow $11 billion to expand light rail in “It’s a hot topic in the Eastern Interstate 35E and Interstate 45 on “If you ever fi nd yourself staring agriculture to have a viable place to the Puget Sound region. Panhandle, the southern part of the the east and west, and only minutes down a reporter’s microphone or exist and to fl ourish in our increas- King County Executive Ron state, all over the state,” Carper said. from Interstate 20 to the north, the trying to get the media to notice ingly urban/suburban landscape,” Sims, who opposed the measure, County commissioners “believe it’s city is easily accessible and enjoys your press releases — if you are said Carrie Sikorski. said, “People want immediate an assault on county government, a mild winter climate. in any way involved in conveying She will be working as part congestion relief and to reduce and they believe the cities have no “We will also be offering a message to the public — there’s of a team that includes members their impact on global warming, business forcing annexation on an evening tour of our historic something here for you to learn, of the Pierce County Farming and they want to do it without folks in incorporated areas.” courthouse,” said Buckley. “It is and someone here who can Assistance, Revitalization and substantial tax increases. We must an amazing structure that was learn from you. You want to be Marketing (FARM) Board. The listen to voters and be sensitive to (News From the Nation’s Counties carefully restored a few years ago, here.” county created the program in what they are saying.” is compiled by Charles Taylor and and it draws tourists from far and For more information, visit the response to the local agriculture The road portion of the measure Elizabeth Perry. If you have an item wide.” NACIO website at www.nacio.org or industry downturn. would have provided $4 billion for for News From, please e-mail ctaylor@ Special conference rates have contact Buckley at 972/825-5087 “The farmbudsman will be a King County and about $3 billion, naco.org or [email protected].) been arranged at Waxahachie’s or [email protected]. 10 November 12, 2007 CCountyountyNNewsews • Research News

determine if a dangerous dog lives locations in the statewide dangerous Broward County, Fla. devotes in their vicinity. In the Virginia Code dog registry. a lengthy section on its Web site to Dangerous after (§ 3.1-796.93:1), a dangerous dog is Although most dangerous dog describe how it defi nes a dangerous defi ned as one that attacks another legislation activity is occurring dog. It includes nearly all designa- dog or cat, while a vicious dog is at the state level, many counties tions previously mentioned includ- One Bite? defi ned as one that infl icts an injury have found the need for their own ing dogs that, unprovoked, attack on humans. legislation. either people or animals on public Recent headlines have once increasing the maximum fi ne for The ordinance goes on to say that streets and rights of way and dogs again drawn attention to the issue owners of dogs that cause property no dog can be declared dangerous County Ordinances that have been specifi cally trained of dangerous dogs. Several people, damage from $25 to $2,000. solely because of its breed. However, The Denver Municipal Code for fi ghting. some elderly and some very young, A second proposed law in once a dog has been designated contains a law that bans the own- Broward’s statute also calls for have been attacked. This media at- Massachusetts would have re- dangerous or vicious the owner ership of pit bulls within the city/ the registration of a declared dan- tention has required many counties quired that owners of dangerous must register the dog as such for a county limits. Generated under the gerous dog on the county registry, to take another look at how they dogs carry $100,000 in liability fee of $50. The dog receives a tag city and county’s home rule powers, the wearing of a special tag and the handle and categorize pets. insurance to cover any damages that must be worn at all times and it has withstood several recent court implanting of a microchip under the Some have adopted their own and injuries from the dogs. This identifi es it as dangerous. Registra- challenges. skin of the dog. ordinances, and others rely on proposal also provided that the tion is subject to an annual renewal The fi rst was in 2005, when Although many states and coun- state law. But the question remains: designation of a dangerous dog for the same fee. the state passed legislation stating ties are facing strong challenges from How do you create a law that helps could be applied after two displays The law also states that the that breed could not be used to pet owners and dog lovers about prevent dog attacks on humans, but or acts of threatening behavior animal must be confi ned while on determine a dangerous dog. The the implementation of dangerous also allows animal lovers to have the within 36 months. the owner’s property and must be second, a challenge brought by a dog laws, these jurisdictions realize pets they want? In July 2007, Virginia established leashed at all other times. Finally, pit bull owner in April 2007, was that some regulation is required in Counties are constantly facing a dangerous dog registry, which can once designated, owners have 45 dismissed for failure of the plaintiff this area. this fi ne line of whether to adopt or- be researched by its residents to days to enter their dogs and the to prove her case. As pet owners have pointed out dinances that target specifi c breeds repeatedly, most dogs, even those of dogs or ordinances that defi ne considered dangerous breeds, have dangerous dogs by behavior. Local never done any harm to anyone. governments often differ on how to Emergency preparedness made easier They believe, as do many, that there write these ordinances. Some use are no dangerous breeds of dogs, breeds, others use behavior and still FS NEWS from page 7 what isn’t. For instance, if someone profi t organizations. To register, go just bad owners who fail to properly others use the acts of omission by the in the stands falls, it sets off an alarm to www.uscommunities.org and click train and restrain their pets. owners to write their ordinances. Brown also said Hagemeyer has so those monitoring the system on “register to participate.” Some recent studies report that been able to supply everything her would know to send medical aid. (Research News was written by Jacque- about 20 people die from dog attacks county has needed. County jails, through Hage- (Kathryn Reed writes for NACo.) line Byers, director of research.) a year. One report, conducted by Hagemeyer has been working meyer’s contacts, have bought jail Animal People, says that 264 deaths with Maricopa County, Ariz. to visitation systems. A fl at screen from dog attacks in the U.S. and develop an air monitoring trailer. television with telephone receiver Canada between 1982 and 2006 Something Robinson stresses is and webcam is available to the Word Search were caused by pit bulls, rottweilers, for counties and others to come to inmate and visitors or the public presa canarios and mixed breeds of Hagemeyer fi rst if a specialized item defender at separate locations. these dogs. is needed instead of going directly to “You don’t have to take the North Carolina Counties In an Ohio appeals court ruling the manufacturer. This is because the person out of lockup. It reduces the W L J F W N G A R J G O R X L H C N M W in 2006, two breed-based danger- company may not be an authorized expenses on the county because they V N X S G L L N V R Z K V V Q E A O L Q ous dog laws were struck down as dealer of Hagemeyer’s, which in turn don’t have to transport the person,” V P C M E A G G U S N P H I G N T S A S unconstitutional, saying that prop- could possibly mean the county will Robinson said. O G Y I M V N B J T D I B A D D A D J N erly trained dogs in the categories pay more in the long run. People being displaced during a N F Q A N H N X Z O E T Q W W E W I Q A previously defi ned as dangerous, “If a county, city or state can disaster is normal. At the same time, are no more dangerous than any get us involved early, we can fi nd a hospitals can be overrun with people I T N H O E J O H N S T O N S R B V X F other breed. The case, City of Toledo manufacturer that is Class A. We can seeking medical care. U C F F L F N B P Q Q Q L R I S A A B Q v. Tellings, was one of a series of get in on the design phase instead of Tent cities are often the answer. E E M K R E B M O C N U B L A O X D I N recent challenges to these breed at the end,” Robinson explained. Hagemeyer works with manufactur- J Y C I I R A F D L J E S A E N G M Z J specifi c laws. Acquiring specialized equip- ers that can turn a 300-bed hospital X E C U M B E R L A N D W U T D G S N M In May 2007, the issue of a new ment is normal operating pro- into a 1,000-bed facility. It’s not just M P L P L G O M W F R O M H R J E E T A proposed dangerous dog law in the cedure for Hagemeyer. Security a tent. Air systems are set up to N Q G Z N F Q L O E E A O H A R Q R W H Massachusetts Legislature led to a surveillance systems are becoming fi lter out contaminants to ensure J G X P L N R R J W M D N T R N A J I R lively debate in the Joint Commit- regularly requested items. Miami- the ill are not breathing them in S P Q I O N S L O W A H F D T Z O B T U tee on Municipalities and Regional Dade County used Hagemeyer to and the general public is not put in G V U T K Y T T E N R A H V O J S V A D Government. As one legislator procure a closed circuit television harm’s way. pointed out, pit bull characteristics system to monitor crowds. Instead Trailers can be hooked up to H G S S T B U B S Q U B X S U L R O E C have been bred into other dogs, such of a lot of wires, the Internet and provide hot meals. Or maybe just a Q A M H K J M P L B W W I M Q X P W N R as the Boston terrier, which is the satellites are used. bundle of tarps is needed to secure G B K H O Y V Y G P B Q D F M W D H I E state dog. County airports have installed a roof. Hagemeyer knows how to Z P U L M F S R Y R Z F U A O T O X P T An overly broad law could wind security systems called smart get what an agency needs. J G J G R F O Y A D Z H N F F F C Y Y Q up banning the state dog. Although cameras to monitor activity. “We can help them fi nd the right the legislature generally stayed away “It’s all the software in the product at the right price,” Robinson ALAMANCE FORSYTH MECKLENBURG from breed banning, one proposal camera. The camera is the eye. The said. “We are constantly trying to BUNCOMBE GASTON NEW HANOVER called for limiting the number of computer is thinking about what is think of the best products for the CABARRUS GUILFORD ONSLOW pit bull-type dogs, while others normal and what isn’t,” Robinson best applications.” CATAWBA HARNETT ORANGE would permit no more than one explained. NACo is one of fi ve national CUMBERLAND HENDERSON PITT so-called “dangerous breed” dog Software is available to detect the sponsors of the U.S. Communities DAVIDSON IREDELL RANDOLPH per household. difference between what is normal program, which is provided without DURHAM JOHNSTON Still another proposal involved activity at a basketball game and charge to public agencies and non- Created By Matthew Fellows • CCountyountyNNewsews November 12, 2007 11 Job Market / Classifi eds

Job Market/Classifi eds scheduled meetings, providing reports County Human Resources Depart- implement national and state election This recruitment will remain open until Rate Schedule and information related to employee ment, 201 W. Kalamazoo Avenue, legislation and legal decisions, monitor Dec. 13. Interested applicants should • Line Rates: $7 per line, NACo mem- and labor issues. Assist with long- Suite 310, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, or and implement current election trends submit an application by visiting www. ber counties; $10 per line, others. term, strategic planning to maintain fax to 269/384-8099. www.kalcounty. and technologies and manage the Di- chesterfi eld.gov. Pre-employment drug • Display Classifi ed: $50 per col umn and continuously improve economic com. EOE. vision’s record and retention program. testing and FBI criminal background inch, NACo member counties; $70 per development and services provided to Represent Multnomah County Elec- check required. Good driving record column inch, others. XDIRECTOR OF PLANNING – PRINCE • Billing: Invoices will be sent after the community. Publicly represent the tions to the media, respond to ques- required, and must not refl ect a total GEORGE COUNTY, VA. publi ca tion. county to news media, and liaise with tions or inquiries, resolve complaints accumulation of six or more negative • Mail advertising copy to: Job Market, other units of government, community Salary: $57,811 – $87,966, DOQ. from the public and manage Division points within the past three years, or County News, 25 Massachusetts Ave., organizations and the public. Provide Prince George County is seeking a communication with vendors and other a major violation within the past four N.W., Washington, DC 20001. supervision and direction to Adminis- director of planning to plan, organize outside agencies. Lead a professionally years. An equal opportunity employer • FAX advertising copy to: Job Market, County News, 202/393-2630. trative Services and other departments and direct planning and zoning activi- open and transparent operational envi- committed to workforce diversity. • E-mail advertising copy to: edassist@ directly reporting. Liaise with and assist ties, services, programs and staff; coor- ronment. Any relevant combination of naco.org. courts, elected offi ces and their depart- dinate work with county administrator the following educational background XSENIOR PLANNER – CHESTERFIELD • Be sure to include billing infor ma tion ments. Assist the county administrator and department directors and serve as and experience would meet the mini- COUNTY, VA. along with copy. in the development of general operating staff support to various boards and com- mum qualifi cations for the position: Salary: DOQ. • Estimates given prior to publication are approximations only and do not budget and capital improvement plans. missions. Successful candidate must Four years of increasingly responsible Chesterfield County, Va. (Rich- necessarily refl ect fi nal cost. Represent the county during collective have comprehensive knowledge of the management experience, including mond-Metro Area), a recognized leader bargaining process to negotiate labor principles and practices of urban and two years of supervisory experience. A and award-winning local government, For more infor ma tion, contact the Job Market representative at union agreements. Perform other duties regional planning, including subdivision history of proven leadership: manage- is seeking an individual with strong 202/942-4256. as delegated by the county administra- development. Position requires exten- rial and supervisory skills are a must. technical and leadership qualities, tor, or assume county administrator sive experience in professional urban Management experience involving elec- and management experience to serve responsibilities in his/her absence. planning. Bachelor’s degree in planning tions is highly desirable. Management as a senior planner of the county’s XDEPUTY COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR Bachelor’s degree in public adminis- or related fi eld required. Master’s degree experience involving vote by mail is Planning-Subdivision Review Division. – KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MICH. tration or related fi eld and fi ve years’ preferred. Possession of or ability to preferred. The equivalent to a bachelor’s Chesterfi eld, a suburban county of 446 Salary: $85,072 – $110,614, DOQ. senior management experience, or any obtain AICP certifi cation within 24 degree from an accredited college or square miles is centrally located in the Full time position with excellent comparable combination of education, months of employment. Salary range university with major coursework in Commonwealth with a population of benefi ts. Kalamazoo County, Mich. is training and experience. Master’s de- is $57,811 – $87,966. Pre-employment public or business administration or a over 300,000 residents. Chesterfi eld is seeking an experienced individual to gree in public administration or related physical/drug testing and criminal back- related fi eld is required. Priority will the corporate location for many small serve as the deputy county administra- fi eld preferred. Experience working ground check, to include fi ngerprinting, be given to candidates who understand businesses and large international tor of county operations. The deputy with an elected policy-making board required. For a complete job description federal policies and directives regarding companies, and has a national reputa- county administrator reports directly the and knowledge of county government and county application, visit the county elections, as well as the role of govern- tion as one of the more affl uent and county administrator who reports to the administration. Must have the ability to Web site at www.princegeorgeva.org or ment in preparing for and responding well-educated localities in the country. Board of Commissioners, which con- analyze and interpret technical infor- pick up a copy at the main lobby of the to election needs and requirements. The Development Review Division of sists of 17 members. Kalamazoo County mation and demonstrate high-quality County Administration Building or the Multnomah County is committed to the Planning Department consists of 30 Government has approximately 1,000 verbal and written communication Department of Human Resources. For hiring a diverse workforce. All qualifi ed planners and technicians and is divided employees with an operating budget of and presentation skills. Must possess information, call 804/722-8669. Dead- candidates are encouraged to apply by into four sections: Subdivision, Site $83 million. Reporting to this position problem-solving skills with a com- line for applications is 4:00 p.m. Dec.28. Nov. 30. See online description at www. Plan, Code Enforcement and Customer are the directors of Animal Services mitment to quality improvement and Applications can be mailed to: Attn: multcojobs.org. Please send a cover letter Assistance. The department is currently and Enforcement, Human Resources, the ability to establish and maintain Human Resources, P.O. Box 68, Prince and resume (e-mail preferred) to Jerry revising its subdivision ordinance and Health and Community Services, Parks effective working relationships with George, VA 23875. Faxed applications Petty at the following address: Mult- review procedures. This position will be and Fairgrounds, Planning and Devel- employees, elected offi cials and the are not accepted. Postmarks are not nomah County Department of Com- afforded the opportunity to become a opment, and Manager-Administrative public. Posting #103-07. Salary range: considered as date received. EOE. munity Services 1600 SE 190th Ave., vital part of this and other projects. The Services. Indirectly reporting is the staff $85,072.00 – $110,614.40. For consid- Suite #224 Portland, OR 97233, or to senior planner will evaluate subdivision of each direct report and county em- eration, application must be received XELECTIONS MANAGER – [email protected]. applications for conformance to Ches- ployees working in the MSU Extension by 5:00 p.m. Dec. 7. Confi dentiality MULTNOMAH COUNTY, ORE. terfi eld County ordinances, compose offi ce. Present to and work with Board can be maintained upon request up to Salary: DOQ. XPLANNER – CHESTERFIELD reports and make presentations to the of Commissioners during regularly interview. Send resume to: Kalamazoo Multnomah County (Portland, Ore.) COUNTY, VA. Planning Commission. Applicants must is seeking an energetic, motivated and Salary: DOQ. possess a bachelor’s degree in Plan- strategic leader with a proven track Chesterfield County, Va. (Rich- ning or related fi eld (master’s degree record of progressive, innovative think- mond-Metro Area), a recognized leader preferred); at least three years’ experi- ing and program development and and award-winning local government, ence in local government planning, or implementation to lead the Elections is seeking a planner for its Planning an equivalent combination of training Division. The elections manager is Subdivision Review Division. Ches- and experience are also required. This responsible for managing, directing and terfi eld, a suburban county of 446 recruitment will remain open until coordinating the activities of the Elec- square miles is centrally located in the Dec. 13. Interested applicants should tions Division staff; providing highly Commonwealth with a population of submit an application by visiting www. complex assistance to elected offi cials, over 300,000 residents. Chesterfi eld is chesterfi eld.gov. Pre-employment drug public agencies and related jurisdictions, the corporate location for many small testing and FBI criminal background and informing the public in all issues businesses and large international check required. Good driving record involving election activities. Essential companies, and has a national reputa- required, and must not refl ect a total functions include: Manage, direct and tion as one of the more affl uent and accumulation of six or more negative organize division activities including well-educated localities in the country. points within the past three years, or voter registration, maintenance of voter The planner will evaluate subdivision a major violation within the past four rolls, conduct of elections and imple- applications for conformance to the years. An equal opportunity employer mentation of contribution and expendi- county’s ordinances, review building committed to workforce diversity. ture report laws. Lead the development permit applications, compose reports and implementation of program budget, and make presentations to the Planning (If you would like information about goals and objectives; develop and imple- Commission. Applicants must possess advertising your job openings in County ment policies and procedures for an a bachelor’s degree in Planning, Archi- News and County News Online, please effi cient and effective team environment tecture or related fi eld, or an equivalent contact Matthew Fellows at 202/942- and operation. Monitor, develop and combination of training and experience. 4256 or [email protected].) 12 November 12, 2007 CCountyountyNNewsews • NACo's Members-Only Grants Clearinghouse Web page, Check it out!

To make sure counties are in the know about funding prospects, NACo has bolstered its efforts to sift through federal and private foundation grants.

We look for county-eligible grants, and we keep an eye out for those grants with the most potential to support innovative projects and ongoing county programs.

If you are a county offi cial or county staff person working for a NACo-member county, then you are eligible to receive access to this members-only resource!

See the Grants Clearinghouse section There are currently nearly 90 active grant of the NACo Website. opportunities listed on the clearinghouse. X Go to www.naco.org Here are some examples of what you'll see: X Click on "County Resource Center" X Click on "Grants Clearinghouse" Community Facilities Brownfi eld Economic Grant Program Development Initiative (Deadline: Contact USDA State offi ce) (Deadline: Dec. 24, 2007) The purpose of the Community Facili- This grant is designed to help local ties Grant Program is to assist in the governments redevelop brownfi elds. development of essential community facilities in rural areas and towns of up Border Enforcement Grant to 20,000 in population. Grant funds (Deadline: Aug. 31, 2008) can be used to construct, enlarge, or To ensure motor carriers operating improve community facilities for health commercial motor vehicles entering the care, public safety, and community and United States from a foreign country are public services. in compliance with commercial vehicle standards and regulations.

25 Massachusetts Avenue, NW l Suite 500 l Washington, DC 20001 l 202-393-6226 l www.naco.org