There was plenty of energy and engagement in the exchange of real-world experiences, success stories and questions when 22 County Board Chairs, Vice Chairs and Supervisors attended VACo’s Chairpersons’ Institute on February 7-8. Attendees came from all over – spanning 10 of the 13 VACo Regions.
The Chairpersons’ Institute was presented by current and past County leaders and administrators. There were six sessions, carefully tailored to meet the needs of community leaders in critical areas like Virginia County government structure, powers and responsibilities; media relations; internal work relationships; managing meetings; citizen engagement; policy priorities and the County budget; as well as goal setting and the role of the chair. Instruction, breakout sessions and ample Q&A time were included in the agenda. Meal time was an opportunity for further discussions and networking with peers. Many evaluations of the Institute over the years share a consensus – the program is strong and on point. If only there was more time allotted!
Dr. Mike Chandler, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics, Virginia Tech; Steve Bowen, VACo President and Nottoway County Supervisors; and Joe Lerch, AICP, VACo Director of Local Government Policy were in attendance and made significant contributions to the presentations. Karie Walker, VACo’s newest team member and Coordinator of Education and Business Development, participated to become familiar with the program and those in attendance. Karie will be the contact for the program next year.
There was a wait list for the Chairpersons’ Institute this year so the plan is to move to a larger classroom in 2021. Thank you to all attendees and speakers who helped make this a great event. See you next year!
VACo Contact: Karie Walker