Dear Editor:
I believe I feel the same way many of your readers do.
It is time to stop polishing the “what’s wrong” and get on with, “beginning to fix.” I suggest the following, at least, to get solution-thinking started. If something like this is already in the works. I apologize, and plead, my ongoing concern for a place I care about deeply.
The existing County Court has the ability to begin that process.
1. They can appoint a volunteer Commission ( or any title they choose) of citizens to begin the process of Rebuilding the County Government.
2. The Commission of citizens should be appointed by the citizens themselves. Currently anyone appointed by the current County Court would be suspect, one way or another.
3. The Commission should be selected by using the original County Precincts. Each Precinct would select one of their own to represent them and use their precinct neighbors to discuss and review the work of the Commission. That would ensure a broad and deep understanding and support for final recommendations.
4. The County could set aside an amount of funding for the operation of the Commission.
5. The Commission could then ask the Association of Oregon Counties to help them develop a plan of review, and assessment of the existing structure and operation of the County. If AOC recommends the Commission hire professionals to assist in the process, there would be money available.
6. I think a good goal would be to set a deadline for reporting to the Court by September.
The statutory framework of the County needs to be reviewed. Current or future competency skills for Statutory positions, operational positions all need to be assessed as one integrated process. Training and education for competency need to accepted as necessary and ongoing when needed at all levels. There is no reason that every position in Gilliam County government cannot be filled from within the County. If the level of experience necessitates looking outside that should be acceptable. However, building the pool of competent, skilled, citizens should be a goal that all young people in the school system can see as possible. As the Editor has written, the county government provides good paying jobs and has for a long time.
Sincerely,
Laura Pryor, Salem
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