New County Bosses Get Crash Course

James Adkins and John Druzbick did a lot of listening, note-taking and question-asking at Thursday's orientation meeting designed to give the incoming commissioners a quick overview of every department in county government.

For about three hours, a steady stream of department representatives approached the podium at the downtown Community Activity Center and gave a slide presentation that provided a breakdown of their duties and budgets.

The 35 people in attendance were mostly government officials, although a smattering of residents showed up along with a civic activist or two. County Commissioners Rose Rocco and Dave Russell were there as well.

County Administrator David Hamilton, who moderated the event, said Commissioner Jeff Stabins had prior commitments and couldn't attend.

Adkins, who narrowly defeated Commissioner Chris Kingsley for the District 5 seat, said most of what he heard Thursday was old news.

Adkins said he knows most of the players, he knows how budgets work and what the departments are supposed to do.

Still, the retired Brooksville fire chief called the orientation a productive refresher course.

Adkins said he intends to look at all the departments and see if there is any further streamlining that can be done.

For example, following a lengthy presentation by County Attorney Garth Coller, he wonders if the county needs five full-time attorneys.

All departments will be reviewed, he said. But first on Adkins' platter is relief to struggling businesses.

"We need to assist them so they can stay open," he said.

Druzbick questioned Purchasing Director Jim Gantt about co-purchasing, a subject he intends to pursue.

Druzbick, who defeated Diane Rowden for her District 3 seat, wants to pursue cooperative buying with the county, the city of Brooksville and the school district.

He believes all three entities can save taxpayers money if they pool resources.

Druzbick and Adkins will be formally sworn in at the Tuesday, Nov. 18, county commission meeting.