During your time as County Commissioner you will need to make a large number of decisions, both alone and with others, which will affect the County. Everyone involved in making these decisions should have a clear understanding of the vision for the County and how the result will affect it.
There are a number of ways to reach a consensus within a County. Which one you decide to use will depend entirely on the decision to be made.
- Democratic vote: To be used for major decisions. Usually the County Executive but can be widened to all Commissioners if appropriate.
- Consultation: Refer to the individuals or groups who will be affected by the decision, allowing you to come to an informed conclusion.
- Personal decision by the Commissioner: To be used when the responsibility ultimately lies with the Commissioner, such as Commissioner appointments. Also used with time-sensitive decisions and when an issue may be delicate or confidential.
- Consensus: A decision is reached by the group. Appropriately used when deciding dates for meetings or County events.
- Deferment: A decision can be deferred to a sub-committee. This should be used sparingly.
- Compromise: It may not always be possible for an entire proposal to be passed. Ask people bringing proposals to outline what compromises might be possible and what would be lost as a result.