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Hernando Today

Commissioner, Administrator Reach Agreement

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By MICHAEL D. BATES

Hernando Today

Published: February 5, 2009

Updated: 02/06/2009 12:23 pm

Hernando Today

BROOKSVILLE - Hernando County Commissioner Rose Rocco said she met privately with her county administrator Thursday and smoothed over any disagreements stemming from her insistence on attending leadership team meetings.

Rocco, who described the meeting as in-depth and amicable, said County Administrator David Hamilton retracted his earlier reluctance on commissioners' presence at the leadership gatherings.

Despite that, Rocco said she has no plans to show up at Tuesday's leadership meeting, the first since county bosses formalized the group's standing.

Rocco told Hernando Today she realized she had a prior engagement and would be unable to attend.

She did not commit to attending subsequent leadership meetings.

Rocco this week expressed her displeasure with Hamilton who, she said, told her he didn't want commissioners taking part at the leadership team meetings.

Hamilton intended the meetings as being limited to staff to encourage open debate.

Rocco insisted that as an elected official, she can't be barred from any meeting. She said it was imperative she attend so she could be privy to any new information shared by the group.

Rocco still believed that Thursday. However, she backed down somewhat, saying she was satisfied after meeting with Hamilton that she had a better idea of the leadership team's meeting and was armed with more information.

She is also satisfied that she can attend if and when she wants.

Rocco said she and Hamilton discussed the reorganization plan and the importance this team will have in trying to streamline government.

"This is all new and we want it to succeed," Rocco said. "In order for it to succeed, we have to know what's going on. I was advised that I could go if I want to go, and I will have access to all meetings if I choose. He's OK with it."

Hamilton said he met with Rocco Thursday as part of his regular weekly meetings with the board. He said she agreed not to attend next week's leadership team meeting but would be welcome at future meetings.

All commissioners, he said, are welcome. But only one at a time, to avoid potential problems with the Government-in-the-Sunshine rules.

Hamilton stressed no ill will exists between himself and Rocco.

"There may have been some minor misunderstandings, given the significant changes that are ongoing in Hernando County, and that's very understandable," Hamilton said.

"But at no time did it compromise the very positive relationship that Commissioner Rocco and I have enjoyed since I arrived."

Hamilton said there was "bound to be a bump in the road" as the structure of the government organization changes.

Asked whether he still wants county commissioners present at the leadership meetings, Hamilton said: "They have the right to attend if they so choose, and if they do choose, they will be made welcome."

Hamilton's leadership team is comprised of eight divisional leaders and replaces the system now in place of 24 department heads, including Constitutional officers.

Having a smaller group focused on specific areas of need will enhance accountability and transparency, Hamilton said.

The leadership team will make policy recommendations and report back to county commissioners.

Hamilton will normally serve as chairman of the group and ensure the agenda is followed. However, no motions will be made and the meetings are meant to be informal to allow for free-flowing ideas.

The team is scheduled to meet bi-weekly and notes will be taken.

Reporter Michael D. Bates can be reached at 352-544-5290 or mbates@hernandotoday.com.

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