Boards and Commissions Volunteer Orientation Program

About the Program

Category: County Administration and Management (Best in Category)

Year: 2011

La Plata County has 37 active boards, committees and commissions involving nearly 190 volunteer citizens. In order to acquaint board and commission members with open meetings and open record laws, confidentiality policies and ethical issues, the Assistant County Manager, County Attorney and Administrative staff designed a 1.5 hour orientation that all current and new board members were asked to attend t help them better understand their roles and responsibilities. The orientation centered around a presentation, created by the Assistant County Manager and county Attorney, outlining such issues as the County’s strategic plan, Colorado Open Meetings Law, the Colorado Open Records Law, governmental immunity, confidentiality issues, conflicts of interest and other pertinent issues that volunteers might encounter, and included ample time for discussion. Participants were given a packet of resources with more specific information on these issues (including individualized position descriptions and personal commitments) and contact information if they needed additional information. This occasion was also used to honor volunteers for their service. The board and commission members make decisions and choices, and the training provides them a touchstone to ground their actions, reduce ambiguity and uncertainty, and assist them in making sound decisions and good choices that will instill confidence in government.