We have for years found the efficiency and effectiveness of Clark County government to be among the benefits of living here. However, we have been concerned recently about apparent dysfunction at the county level that could lead to the loss of competent employees. It already has obviously undermined morale and fostered fear among the staff.
As members of various governing boards, we have learned the difference between governance and hands-on management.
Boards, commissions or councils set policy and ensure that a competent executive is hired to run things. They do not micromanage or second-guess either that executive or individual staff members, but instead trust them to work collegially and effectively.
The executive is, of course, subject to annual performance review, but he or she should not be subjected to random criticism by individual board members or given veiled threats concerning employment security.
