By Stephen Smoot
Behind the scenes at the county and local level, volunteers who serve on a number of boards, commissions, and committees play key roles in getting work done in a number of fields. As Hardy County Commission President Dave Workman states “we have a lot of boards that our Hardy County Commission can make appointments to.” Others “ask for recommendations of names of folks to serve on boards.”
Many are searching not just to fill open spots, but to find those with a passion to help their communities, to lead improvement efforts, or share their ideas on the present and future of Hardy County and its needs.
The combined efforts of volunteers with different backgrounds, different experiences, and different ideas help to advance the county and create a better community for its residents. Some boards have long time members for whom age has caused them to slow down and do less. Others have term limits and their bylaws require turnover in membership and participation.
Either way, the boards need help in the form of new volunteers.
“Let’s put out a call,” Workman shared that he told this to fellow Commissioners. After sharing the need on social media, he stated that “we’ve received a few inquires and a few specific applications and resumes.”
He explained, however, that board membership is purely voluntary. Some may provide a small stipend to defray travel costs, but “you won’t get rich doing this.”
“Pay” comes in the intangibles. Many join because they feel a strong interest in the subject. The Farmland Preservation Board, for example, helps to ensure that productive farmland remains so in perpetuity. With the creep of suburban and exurban style growth into the eastern reaches of the Potomac Highlands, the community has determined that agriculture must remain a priority and that board helps to accomplish that.
Others join a board, commission, or committee to learn more about the community and its needs. Workman says appointments to boards such as the planning commission “certainly can create the opportunity to learn more about elected government,” especially for those who may aspire to run for local office at the town or county level.
Some could apply expertise or assistance to boards such as Parks and Recreation, suggesting, planning, and bringing forth fun-filled ideas for kids of all ages.
Workman shared that some area boards, committees, and commissions often make suggestions for appointment to their group based on organizational needs and the experience and talents of potential candidates. Public service district boards need those who have knowledge that can be applied toward maintaining or expanding water and sewer infrastructure, or skills that can help in grant application.
Additionally, the Rural Development Authority brings together those with experience and interest in expanding the local economy in ways that best benefit the region.
Often times, Workman says, the County Commission relies on these boards and their membership. He says that they “help direct decisions that we make and the directions we need to go.”
A County Commission composed of three members cannot cover the full breadth of needed knowledge themselves to effectively administer government and relies on boards, as well as many other sources, for advice and information.
