ESO has learned of two recent surveys by the two elected bodies of Essex County Government. The School Board posted a survey (with printed copies available upon request) seeking public input about the considerations and attributes desired in the next Superintendent. The Board of Supervisors posted an internal county employee survey to obtain comments and concerns about the functioning of our county government. Both Boards have clearaly done the right thing by seeking information and opinions. The survey results varied and this is a brief Tale of Two Surveys.
The School board survey was an invitation for the public, and particularly the parents of school children and the teachers and administrators, to play an important role in the selection process. Unfortunately, ESO believes the response was disappointing. As of October 17 it was reported that 110 responses had been received. ONLY 110! – was it public apathy or was the distribution method for the survey at fault for the low response rate? Clearly the School Board properly attempted to open the shutters and pull up the shades, but only a little sunshine illuminated their path toward the selection of the next Superintendent.
ESO has not seen the County Government survey nor have we been told any details about the results. That's as it should be because the sunshine, in this case, was to help the Board and the County Administrator improve the efficiency and effectiveness of local government. We have heard from various sources that many employees appreciated the opportunity to provide candid comments and the fact that the top management wanted to hear they had to say. Rumor has it that a number of very candid comments and suggestions were provided by the employee respondents.
ESO believes that Open Government and transparency are best served when sunshine illuminates the staffing policies and procedures of the Essex County Government and when the public (VOTERS) and the staff (county employees, school administrative staff, and teachers) are part of the dialogue and decision making process.
John R. Clickener
