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ORANGE COUNTY <br />BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS <br />ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT <br />Meeting Date: September 15, 2009 <br />Action Agenda <br />Item No. 4 -m <br />SUBJECT• Agenda Abstract Writing Training <br />DEPARTMENT: Human Resources PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N) No <br />ATTACHMENT(S): <br />Consultant Resume <br />Proposal <br />INFORMATION CONTACT: <br />Michael McGinnis, Human Resources <br />Director, 245-2552 <br />PURPOSE: To approve a contract with Keith Hayes Writers to develop a style guide for the <br />writing of agenda abstracts. <br />BACKGROUND: In January 2009, the Manager directed Human Resources to develop an <br />agenda writing training program for department directors. This was in line with the Manager's <br />concern about the consistency and quality of the agenda abstracts being forwarded for Board <br />agendas. The Board has also provided input amplifying this need. In February 2009, initial <br />contact was made with Keith Hayes, LLC, a local professional writing consultant with experience <br />working in both the private and public sector to improve management writing skills. Mr. Hayes <br />has spent twenty years in corporate communications, fourteen working for public relations <br />agencies in Toronto and Raleigh and six leading employee communications for Blue Cross and <br />Blue Shield of North Carolina. Mr. Hayes has also taught business writing at NC State for <br />twelve years. (See attached resume). <br />The Manager and Human Resources staff conducted discussions with the consultant to <br />determine the professional capability and suitability to meet these needs. Based on these <br />discussions a training program was outlined to include introductory meetings with department <br />directors and individual meetings as needed and requested by staff. This initial phase was <br />accomplished in April 2009 and two training sessions with department directors were conducted <br />in May 2009. The consultant also met with individual department directors on specific agenda <br />abstracts. <br />Mr. Hayes has provided an updated training plan indicating future services and the associated <br />fees. These include the development of a style guide, monthly writing workshops and individual <br />coaching with directors on abstract writing. (See attached proposal). <br />Mr. Hayes has requested the opportunity to meet with a representative of the Board members <br />and receive direction related to the desired format and style to be used in the writing of agenda <br />abstracts. This feedback would be used in the development of a style guide for Orange County <br />agenda item abstracts. <br />