Developing Effective Teamwork & Leadership Capacities for County Government

About the Program

Category: Personnel Management, Employment and Training (Best in Category)

Year: 2009

Enhanced leadership and teamwork capacities were identified as high priority needs by elected and appointed Colusa County managers. The expense of a comprehensive training program, coupled with ongoing Colusa County fiscal restraints, did not permit these needs to be met through “normal” channels. The Colusa County University of California Cooperative Extension Department Head provided access to resources to conduct a training program. The program content and priories were developed by Colusa County department heads and Cooperative Extension was able to secure seed monies and academic trainers. The program was delivered in monthly half-day workshops. Programs and reference materials were assembled in binders to provide future workshops. The program had an estimated value of $30,000 with no direct costs to the county. Extensive evaluations and skill set measurements were conducted. Increases in understanding of leadership and teamwork principles or applications were documented. Highly rated program evaluations were received from the participants. Important tools for enhancing service to the public and developing inter-departmental teams resulted. Some of the participants indicated that they are now utilizing those enhanced skills in services provided by their departments.