Committee Meeting(Committee of the Whole (Governance Workshop)):2/8/2024 (Effective Governance Presentation – C. Janik, 2/8/2024)

**Executive Summary**

This document focuses on effective governance within Leelanau County, referencing workshops, data, and theories from various sources. It identifies key areas for commissioners, including personnel levels and long-term planning, emphasizing the importance of a united approach for residents’ benefit. The document also references a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) survey conducted among county employees, revealing perceptions regarding services, internal conflicts, technological needs, and staffing issues.

**Effective Governance and Peak Performing Boards**

The document outlines characteristics of peak-performing boards, emphasizing a focus on issues rather than personalities, maintaining confidentiality, and fostering strong community linkages. It stresses the interdependent relationship between the Board and Administrator, including the importance of regular evaluations. The document indicates that the number of special meetings and committees affects organizational effectiveness. The document discourages discussions about personnel issues outside of Commissioner events.

**Leadership Traits and Perspectives on Planning**

The document identifies leadership traits of visionary boards, including a strong belief in the system, self-mastery, dedication to serving others, and a focus on the main priorities. It underscores the need for leaders to be politically astute, courageous, trustworthy, and competent. It includes insights on planning, emphasizing that the absence of a plan is a plan to fail. It also offers diverse perspectives on the future and the importance of adaptability in governance.

**Final Thoughts**

The document concludes by highlighting the importance of striving for good governance, underscoring the idea that this should be the central political ideology.