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After a discussion about the existing BOCC Petition process, it was suggested that they could <br /> continue the current process if the following key points are addressed: (These issues are relevant <br /> to Petitions by the BOCC and the Public) <br /> 1. Communication with the petitioner needs to be improved, so there is more <br /> transparency with the petitioner regarding the status of their petition and the process for <br /> vetting the petition. <br /> 2. The timing of when a petition item is processed needs to be addressed so there is not <br /> a protracted delay in addressing the item. <br /> 3. Everything doesn't need to be a petition. Some items simply require that a <br /> Commissioner go to the County Manager/staff to get the information that is needed. <br /> However, it is important that when there is a response that all Commissioners receive the <br /> information. <br /> 4. In a future session, the Board needs to clarify what type of items require a petition <br /> versus those that don't need a petition. <br /> Open Discussion/Wrap Up <br /> In this final session the County Manager made closing comments that summarized thoughts about <br /> the meeting and follow up steps to be undertaken by the staff: <br /> 1. The Manager thought it was a good that the process was changed for presenting the <br /> update on goals and priorities, then she thanked the Department Directors for their <br /> presentations given that change in the approach. <br /> 2. Staff will provide the Commissioners with an inventory of the services that have fee waivers <br /> and she will ask for opportunities where fee waivers may be included. They will share the <br /> local, state, or federal policy source. <br /> 3. At an upcoming work session, Bonnie will propose a goal setting process. <br /> 4. Following the suggestion that came out of the DSI Team Building Session, we will always <br /> repeat what a person says to you to reflect back to them what you understand them to be <br /> saying, to stay in the moment. <br /> 5. On the Bond Referendum she summarized: <br /> a. There is consensus on having a Bond Referendum. <br /> b. The County Manager will develop an abstract on a bond so the Board of County <br /> Commissioners can have a public discussion about the bond. <br /> c. Paul and Bonnie are working with the Financial Advisor who can help with the entire <br /> process. <br /> d. The Manager said it was helpful that the Commissioners want to follow the 2001 <br /> process. <br /> 6. The Manager will work with the Board to improve the petitions process. <br /> Cynthia Brown, the Retreat facilitator, thanked the BOCC for entrusting facilitation to her for the <br /> meeting and said she would type up her meeting notes and share them with the County Manager <br /> before they are distributed to the BOCCs. <br /> Finally, in closing comments the Board and the staff participants expressed appreciation for the <br /> inclusion of staff in the BOCC Retreat. <br /> Earl McKee, Chair <br />