County administrator pushes surveys, calls for clearer budget reporting

Administrator Ron reported that final shared‑revenue numbers were not yet available but internal sales‑tax receipts are up, and he urged the committee to act on two strategic‑plan survey goals: one to solicit county‑board and department‑head feedback and another to survey employees.

Ron asked committee members to consider who should lead each survey, the target audience, and whether to bring UW Extension (or a paid consultant) to present sample instruments. Several members supported using UW Extension for a virtual presentation and keeping surveys short and focused.

On financial reporting, the treasurer and committee members said the presented first‑quarter format can mislead because payroll and major state aid arrive later in the year. Members asked the treasurer to add a prior‑year comparison column and summary notes to the quarterly report; the treasurer agreed to include a reference column for the next committee cycle so the committee can better track trends and avoid late surprises.

The administrator will collect sample surveys for committee review and will coordinate department‑head feedback before the committee finalizes scope and design.