Orange County NC Website
8 <br /> • Intergovernmental Relationships <br /> Almost all of the departments are involved in some type of intergovernmental relationship. <br /> Although each of these relationships is unique, the teams discussed a desire to standardize the <br /> financial terms of those agreements through formulas or some other mechanism that would <br /> allow for long term, sustainable agreements. The teams also recognized an opportunity to <br /> improve cooperation with municipal partners specifically on inclement weather responses <br /> through a better definition of responsibilities and communication. <br /> • Economic Development <br /> The highest scoring need was in the area of economic development. This need was viewed by <br /> the teams as another vehicle to economic prosperity and sustainability. The teams suggested <br /> that the availability of infrastructure such as water, sewer, and high speed data are critical <br /> elements to promote economic development and could be used to guide sustainable <br /> development. The teams also discussed a need to encourage a diverse range of economic <br /> opportunities for County residents. <br /> • Service Models <br /> The service model discussion focused on the most effective way to deliver County services and <br /> whether services ought to be centralized or decentralized in the County. Department Directors <br /> suggested that developing a general agreement and clarity on that question would help to <br /> guide service delivery and policy implementation decisions. <br /> We hope that this information is helpful to the Board of County Commissioners as goals and priorities <br /> are discussed at the annual retreat and for future policy discussions. We look forward to working with <br /> the Board on this process. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me or Bonnie. <br /> CC: Bonnie Hammersley, Orange County Manager <br /> Department Directors <br /> 5 <br />