Talk of the County Podcast | Behind the Scenes of NACo's Annual DC LegCon with Commissioners Denise Winfrey and John O'Grady

03/04/24 • 48 min

This episode was recorded in Washington, D.C. at the National Association of Counties Legislative Conference.

Kenneth Wilson is joined by Commissioner Denise Winfrey and Commissioner John O'Grady to discuss the vital yet often understated role of county governments. Commissioner Winfrey, representing Will County, Illinois, and the immediate past president of the National Association of Counties (NACo), shares her experiences and the importance of counties in providing day-to-day services.

Commissioner Winfrey emphasizes how counties are key in attracting and retaining a talented workforce by offering competitive benefits through payroll system portals. She points out the leverage that counties have in negotiating favorable rates for essential services like insurance, as well as perks such as travel deals. She also sheds light on her intensive travel schedule and responsibilities during her tenure as NACo president, which involved a significant amount of remote work and fostering important relationships with federal administration in Washington, D.C.

The conversation then turns to the common public oversight of the roles of county commissioners. Despite their critical function in managing various essential services, such as health departments, judicial systems, police services, and more, they are often overshadowed by mayoral and other high-profile positions.

Public Service Impact: "But it's the work we do, the work that our employees all do. It's it it touches everyone's lives day in and day out." — Commissioner John O'Grady

The conversation shifts its focus to the economic and cultural characteristics that define Will County, Illinois. As a rapidly growing county with a population of about 700,000, it boasts an inland port and a significant intermodal presence, along with warehouses and bustling river activities. Cultural elements are also highlighted, including the county's historical significance, as seen with locations like the old Joliet Prison featured in the Blues Brothers movie. Furthermore, the county's dining scene is a testament to its cultural diversity, offering an array of cuisines that reflect the mosaic of its population.

Kenneth Wilson compares the similarities and differences between the food scenes of Franklin County, Ohio and the greater Chicago area, acknowledging the intricacies of each locality's culinary landscape.

Commissioner Winfrey remarks on her significant contributions to NACo, particularly her efforts in convening commissions that focus on relevant issues like housing affordability, mental health, and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on county operations. A notable project she mentions is the AI-generated children’s book about counties set to be distributed in libraries, which underwent a rigorous process to ensure it was representative and free from bias.

The Integration of AI in Everyday Life: "Because what some people aren't aware of is that AI is already here. We're already using it, have been for quite some time. It's just now we're looking at generative AI differently." — Commissioner Denise Winfrey

They further explore how counties can utilize AI to automate redundant tasks, leading to a more efficient delivery of services, though they caution that human oversight remains imperative. The commissioners and Kenneth Wilson agree on the value of NACo's role in bringing together various voices to share best practices, advocate at the federal level, and provide leadership training programs like the High Performance Leadership Academy.

In recognition of their unique responsibilities, the guests discuss the county's instrumental role during the pandemic — from setting up daily administrative calls and monthly health updates to addressing needs such as maintaining roads, ensuring food access, and managing facilities like nursing homes. They highlight how various initiatives, from drug and veterans courts to tackling issues like gun violence and racism, stem from cooperative ideas shared among counties. Progress tracking after policy implementation is another key aspect underscored.

As the episode ends, Commissioner Winfrey and Commissioner O'Grady encapsulate the purview of county commissioners' responsibilities, their pivotal role in community service, and the challenges faced when taking mandatory but sometimes unpopular decisions.

Top Takeaways

1. **The Value of County Workforces**: Commissioner Winfrey stresses the importance of offering competitive benefits to attract and retain highly skilled workers in county governments, leveraging collective bargaining to secure favorable rates for county employees.

2. **Underappreciated Role of County Commissioners**: Commissioners Winfrey and O'Grady discuss the significant yet often overlooked role of ...

This episode was recorded in Washington, D.C. at the National Association of Counties Legislative Conference.

Public Service Impact: "But it's the work we do, the work that our employees all do. It's it it touches everyone's lives day in and day out." — Commissioner John O'Grady

Top Takeaways

2. **Underappreciated Role of County Commissioners**: Commissioners Winfrey and O'Grady discuss the significant yet often overlooked role of ...

Previous Episode

Talk of the County Podcast | Black History Month with Dr. Hasan Jeffries and Commissioner Kevin Boyce

In this powerful episode of "Talk Of The County," host Kenneth Wilson leads an insightful conversation on Black history and the evolution of the civil rights movement with eminent guests Dr. Hasan Jeffries and Kevin Boyce. The discussion probes into the educational disparities, media influences, and social justice activism in the context of Black history.

Dr. Jeffries sheds light on the uneven understanding of civil rights history across different regions, pinpointing the underlying issues of racism and inequality that persist in Ohio. The panel talks about systemic racism and its increased visibility amongst students, particularly following the George Floyd protests in 2020. Dr. Jeffries emphasizes the significance of grassroots movements and the role of everyday people in shaping civil rights activism, which is often overshadowed by the media's portrayal.

A poignant segment of the conversation delves into how the media historically treated Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, discussing the complexities of their representations. After King's assassination, Dr. Jeffries notes a shift in public opinion that led to a sanitized narrative that conformed to the status quo, often glossing over King's message of economic and social justice.

Kenneth Wilson turns the spotlight on the media's power in crafting historical narratives, influencing how racial issues are perceived, and the dynamic nature of racism. Guest Kevin Boyce, while sharing his personal experience of being maced during protests, acknowledges a new era in American history marked by George Floyd's death.

The dialogue then broadens to cover the significance of diversity, equality, and inclusion in society. Boyce stresses the need for fair opportunities based on qualifications, not identity, advocating for a more just and equitable world.

Throughout the conversation, Boyce and Dr. Jeffries acknowledge recent social upheavals that have generated fresh opportunities while meeting resistance from beneficiaries of the existing power structures. The episode also explores the polarizing political landscape post-Obama's presidency, the backlash from the MAGA movement, and the politicization of the Tea Party.

The 2010 midterm elections come under scrutiny as a critical juncture influencing the current political atmosphere. The guests discuss the sense of neglect felt by Black men within traditional political ideologies, leading some towards far-right allegiances. They stress the importance of organization and setting tangible expectations for political change, highlighting the community's overemphasis on the mere act of voting.

COVID-19's impact on exacerbating health disparities and emphasizing the necessity for minority business loans is also broached. Boyce and Dr. Jeffries speak on the ongoing struggle for racial health equality, tracing its roots back to previous civil rights and black power movements.

Kevin Boyce, discussing voting's significance, likens it to preparing ingredients for cookies – essential but requiring patience and commitment. He urges for a collective black political agenda, emphasizing electoral participation for influencing government decisions.

As the conversation progresses, the topic of homeownership, education, and community engagement surfaces, framed as success ingredients and preparations for seizing opportunities. Dr. Jeffries discusses the diminishing prospects for the younger generation in the wake of student debt and limited job opportunities.

Both guests lament the exploitation of fear and racism in politics, pointing out its dangerous application from border crises to negative ad campaigns. Special attention is given to barbershops and beauty shops as influential community hubs for discourse and collective decision-making.

The episode wraps up with reflections on personal growth and the importance of inclusivity. Dr. Jeffries and Boyce highlight the power of each vote by citing significant electoral impacts such as the loss of a Senate candidate in Wisconsin due to a narrow margin. Dr. Jeffries advocates open-mindedness towards difficult truths to incite change at various societal and personal levels.

Commissioner Boyce shares his experience as the first African American county commissioner in Franklin County, emphasizing the potential for change that such positions hold and the importance of his legacy. The increase in African American county commissioners since 2016 is celebrated, pointing to progress in representation.

The topic of mentorship is detailed as crucial for the advancement of underrepresented groups, illustrating that mentors come in various forms and that such relationships can profoundly impact professional and personal development.

Top Takeaways

1. Education on Civil Rights: The significance of regional differences in the understanding of civil rights history and the importance of comprehe...

Next Episode

Talk of the County Podcast | Celebrating Women's History with Commissioner Crawley at Zora's House

This episode highlighting Women's History Month is an episode that features two remarkable leaders who are championing the advancement of women of color in our community.

First, we welcome the inspiring LC Johnson, founder of Zora's House, a thriving community space that empowers black women through mentorship and leadership programs. LC will share her journey, the remarkable growth of Zora's House, the concept behind their $66,000,000 capital campaign to build a comprehensive community hub, and her personal experiences as a black woman leader often in the harsh spotlight of hyper-visibility.

Joining LC is the first African American county commissioner in Franklin County, the passionate Franklin County Commissioner Erica C. Crawley. She'll be discussing her commitment to racial equity, the importance of supportive communities, and the journey to bringing valuable resources to organizations like Zora's House.

Together, they'll talk about the need for unapologetic leadership, resilience in the wake of skepticism, and the importance of making space for the unique experiences of women of color. You'll hear poignant stories of struggle, triumph, and the profound impact of drawing strength from the legacy of Zora Neale Hurston.

Get ready for an engaging and insightful conversation that shines a light on both the challenges and the progress of women of color in leadership.

Top Takeaways

1. **Visibility vs. Support**: LC Johnson highlights the discrepancy between the visibility of black women in leadership and the actual support they receive, a theme echoed in the conversations around the hyper visibility and simultaneous lack of backing for women of color.

2. **The Burnout Phenomenon**: The episode sheds light on the high burnout rates among women of color, emphasizing the additional pressures they face, particularly in leadership roles—an important consideration for organizations and communities.

3. **Creating Safe Spaces**: The establishment of Zora's House as a community hub and incubator is a testament to the need for spaces dedicated to nurturing the professional and personal growth of women of color, reinforcing the message that such safe spaces are essential.

4. **The Journey to Racial Equity**: Commissioner Erica C. Crawley and LC Johnson discuss the recent shifts in dialogue towards racial equity, noting that organizations and funders are beginning to recognize and address the unique challenges faced by black and brown communities.

5. **Funding Challenges and Ignoring Doubters**: Zora's House's audacious capital campaign, despite skepticism, underscores the perseverance required to secure funding for initiatives led by and for women of color, and the importance of persisting in the face of doubt.

6. **Leadership and Mentorship**: The Leadership Fellows Program at Zora's House reflects an active commitment to the development of women of color leaders, fostering mentorship, and professional development opportunities, and highlighting the value of such programs.

7. **Celebrating Black Women's Success**: LC Johnson's recognition as Columbus CEO's Woman of the Year and her appearance on the Kelly Clarkson show serve as significant affirmations for black women leaders, emphasizing the impact of recognition and the need to celebrate these achievements widely.

8. **Building and Supporting Community**: Both guests underscore the importance of finding a supportive community that sees and values individuals, such as Zora's House providing year-long engagement and a place where women of color's potential is embraced and uplifted.

9. **Honoring Legacy and Heritage**: The episode celebrates Zora Neale Hurston's legacy and her influence on Zora's House, fostering an appreciation for historical figures in women's history and the importance of honoring their contributions by continuing their work.

10. **Empowerment through Financial Stability**: Programming like HerWay Business Builder and Wealth Builders at Zora's House spotlights the crucial role that financial empowerment plays in the lives of women of color, addressing financial trauma, and championing first-generation wealth building.

Memorable Moments

08:46 Zora Neale Hurston's life celebrated, rediscovered.

16:33 Zora's House supports women of color's advancement.

17:49 Wealth Builders program supports 1st generation individuals.

24:33 Challenges faced by women of color in leadership.

28:49 Racial equity conversations challenge tr...

Franklin County Media - Talk of the County Podcast | Behind the Scenes of NACo's Annual DC LegCon with Commissioners Denise Winfrey and John O'Grady

Transcript

Kenneth Wilson [00:00:14]:

We are about to start, Talk Of The County. This is a Franklin County, Ohio podcast. We've had a number of episode. We've had a number of interesting guests, but now we're here from the NACo Legislative Conference. And I'm here, with one of my bosses, Commissioner John O'Grady, and we are here with the immediate past president of NACo, Commissioner Denise Winfrey. And we are going to talk about counties, why counties matter, the impact of counties, because coun