August 5, 1999

Something that’s been missing from Marion County is a good debate! Over the six months I’ve been a Marion County Commissioner, department heads are beginning to understand I want thorough information and good discussion of the proposals they bring before the Board. They are learning that I do my homework and I expect them to do theirs as well.

In the past, when department heads wanted to do something new or request money, all they had to do was place the item on the Board agenda. A brief appearance before the Board to present a vague overview of the proposal earned them an obligatory blessing, and back they went to their department.

This process may have created an environment where department heads felt the Board trusted their judgment and decision making, however, proposals lacked critical evaluation and scrutiny. And it led to departments being isolated from each other. Furthermore, citizens haven’t known much about what goes on in Marion County government!

As stewards of the taxpayers’ dollars, we commissioners have a responsibility to understand proposals, programs and ideas coming before us for approval. Fact finding and thorough research lay the groundwork for sound decision making. Lacking good discussion and even healthy debate, one cannot know the validity or the benefits of a proposal. Verifiable research and supporting data are necessary for gaining support of a new idea or program.

Programs today are complicated. Details are buried deep within the multi-faceted layers of intergovernmental agreements. Often contracts interface with one or more others. Several different government entities are typically involved. Deciphering funding sources and cost estimates are usually difficult to pin down. Things are hardly ever as they appear on the surface!

Helping department heads to understand that questioning the validity and benefit of their proposal is NOT questioning their personal intent or credibility has been a challenge. However, they are becoming more comfortable in presenting all the facts, both the pros and cons of an issue. And while the final solution may be one we don’t agree on, they are learning we can in fact work together in seeking the solutions to problems.

My fellow commissioners and I are also learning each other’s style. We bring different philosophies and different values to the Board. As we learn to work together, I continue to be steadfast as your taxpayer advocate. Bringing a business perspective to policy-making decisions while protecting our farmers and agricultural economy remain guiding principles as I evaluate proposals and programs.

Through all these growing pains, we are making positive changes for Marion County. And as always, your input is important. Please feel free to contact me with your questions or ideas at the courthouse at 503.588.5212 or e-mail me at pmilne@open.org.

Patti Milne, Marion County Commissioner

2330 Miller Farm Rd.

Woodburn, OR 97071

588-5212 work

982-6097 home