Aware hiring a county administrator was a critical decision and one that could have long-lasting impacts for years to come, the Cook County community: county governance and citizens, was tasked with identifying ways in which focused professional management could improve efficiency in providing county services, reduce costs and taxes, and promote the countywide interests of its citizens.
Before making their final decision, October 3, 2013, the board of commissioners conducted an extensive process, including a roundtable interview in April of 2013 with commissioners, department heads and highly regarded county administrators from three other counties: Crow Wing, Sherburne and Itasca.
We were told, “A county administrator will save you money. In fact, more than compensate for their salary.”
The question, as to whether a county administrator would save the county money, was asked again and again by members of the community. At a May 22, 2013 public forum (an opportunity for the public to weigh in on the decision to hire a county administrator) one of the first questions put forward by an attendee was, “Are there facts to back up the claims that cost savings will more than pay for the cost of the new position?”
In subsequent years, the question I was most often asked by constituents, related to the position of county administrator, was: “Is he saving us any money? If he is I don’t see it.”
Regrettably, I would have to agree.
Under the present county administrator, there appears to be disparate decision-making and an unchecked agenda for increased spending on multiple levels. In fact, a blatant reluctance to want to explore any avenues to reduce spending.
My hopes for the county in creating the position of county administrator were to create a more efficient form of county governance; nurture a culture of trust that would allow energies and resources to be more focused; and ensure enhanced fiscal accountability.
During a November 15, 2016 grievance discussion before the board of commissioners, the president of the Cook County Employees Association–Cook County’s largest employee group with every department represented in its membership–divulged before the board, regarding the county administrator, “We listen to how he interprets and I will tell you flat out, there is absolutely no trust here.”
It is my firm belief a productive, healthy culture is best achieved through the cultivation of trust. As David Orsager, author of the book, The Trust Edge maintains, “Trust affects a leader’s impact more than any other single thing.”
Martha Sinetar, Sinetar & Associates, Inc. further defines, “Trust is not a matter of technique, but of character; we are trusted because of our way of being, not because of our polished exteriors or our expertly crafted communications.”
Cook County needs a person in the position who fights the urge toward self-importance … the need to be right. An individual who works effectively with a variety of people, including those with conflicting or competing interests. Respects individual differences and roles, and ensures all voices are heard. Is tactful, helpful, and compassionate toward others. Serves as a unifying, rather than divisive, leader within the county.
Yes, in 2013 we were told; however …
Former Cook County Commissioner Garry Gamble is writing this ongoing column about the various ways government works, as well as other topics. At times the column is editorial in nature.
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