Administrator

Message from Verna J. McDaniel,
Washtenaw County Administrator

Welcome!

It is truly an honor to serve as your County Administrator. I have been in public service for 35 years, 28 of which have been with Washtenaw County. I spent most of my time at the County as the Director of Human Resources, and prior to becoming the County’s Administrator I also served as the Deputy Administrator.

I am proud to be a part of this organization built upon Guiding Principles, Core Competencies and a vision of being world class.  I plan to build upon the knowledge and experience which has enabled this organization to become a world class service provider.  I will uphold this legacy by reminding myself and my team, every day, why we’re here – steadfast dedication to serving the public and a commitment to excellence. This commitment is more important than ever given the current economic climate.

The financial status of this organization impacts each of us.   I pledge to keep you informed on the financial condition of the county.  We remain committed to the Guiding Principles, especially #1:  Long-Term Fiscal Stability. However, the ability to provide stability has been challenged and will continue to be for the next several years primarily due to the decline in property taxes.  I remain committed to preserving services and jobs wherever possible, while leading the organization through strategic policy, programmatic, and financial decisions with a long-term perspective.

The County has persevered during this economic downturn, as is evident in the unanimous approval of a balanced budget for FY2010/11.  This budget included minimal job and service reductions, accurate forecasting of property tax revenue for 2010, the retention of AA+ bond ratings, and a 2009 General Fund year-end surplus of $586K.  However, we must not forget the challenges that lie ahead.  Current financial projections indicate significant shortfalls for 2012/2013 that need to  be addressed.

 Addressing these budget shortfalls will not be easy. As we evaluate and examine programs and services, we will make tough decisions about what programs and services are essential and what we may have to do without. While the economic climate will continue to be a challenge, I know we can get through these times by working together. We have so many great things going for us here in Washtenaw County, I know we can maintain the quality of life we value and have come to expect.

As we weather these difficult times, I believe open communication is critical. I consider it one of the most important aspects of my job as Administrator and I am committed to sharing as much as I can, as quickly as possible, without sacrificing thoughtfulness.  In an effort to keep you informed I have created a newsletter that will be published monthly. The newsletter will include updates on key initiatives, financial information and highlights from various County departments. I hope you will find these publications informative.

I am very proud of our community, and I know you are as well. We have made a positive impact in this community, and we know we must continue to focus on community and economic development that will preserve and grow the level of services our residents expect now and in the future. Your overwhelming support for our county and the collaborative efforts of our county staff, Board of Commissioners and our community partners will continue to make Washtenaw County a great place to call home.

In closing, I’d like to thank the residents of this great community for your support and the employees for their steadfast commitment and dedication to public service.

I hope to hear from you soon.

Verna J. McDaniel
Washtenaw County