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New county service standards are a model

The Lake County Board has announced a new plan establishing standards of conduct for commission and board appointees.

Approximately 300 appointments are made in numerous units of Lake County government by the board to citizens stepping up to fill these community service positions for little or no compensation. The Lake County Board is giving due respect to these positions while holding appointees accountable. Not all municipalities give the same considerations. Selection of appointees should be taken seriously, as should showing gratitude for their service. These are special positions that should be filled by those with no ulterior motives, just a pride in making their community a better place to live.

Consideration of their service is just as important. When making changes the leaders have a duty to evaluate and take other’s opinions as to the input the seated appointees have made in the past. Change just for the sake of change, vindictive or personal reasons is disruptive at the least.

The people in place have what is an important attribute, experience. When one does a good job, commend them by advising them of their continuing position and reappointment. If they are vacating the seat, have the courtesy to notify them of their imposing replacement if that is the case, and give proper public recognition for their service.

The Board stated they are requiring the following standards of conduct and are asking for a certificate of acknowledgment of these standards to be signed: accountability, fiscal responsibility, transparency, efficiency and ethics.

The Lake County Board, which approved the standards this week, should be applauded for taking these measures. Municipalities across Lake County and the state would be wise to set similar examples in place.

Monica Knigge

Wauconda

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