The duties of a Commissioner

"Truly understanding your role should be your first step in preparing for a new endeavor."

I have served for over 40 years as an elected Hospital Commissioner for Jefferson County Public Hospital District No.2 (Jefferson Healthcare).  During that time, amongst other things, I have learned what the duties and responsibilities for a Commissioner are, be it Hospital or PUD.

First of all, you are responsible for whatever is done, or not done, by the agency you serve.  You delegate the authority to the chief executive officer (CEO), but not the responsibility.  Though you may want to become more involved in the day to day operation, refraining from that will make for a better, more efficient operation.

The duties of a Board of Commissioners:

• Establish the general policies for the organization
• Hire and support the best, most qualified Chief Executive Officer (CEO possible
• Approve the hiring of other key administrative staff
• Working with the CEO, develop strategic plans, short and long term, including contingencies
• Set goals and objectives, long term and for the budget year
• Approve the annual budget, complete and detailed, based on  Board goals and objectives
• Monitor the performance of the organization, measured by how the goals and objectives are being met, within budget and according to established policies
• Be the two-way communications link between the organization and those the Board represents

The duties of the individual Commissioner:

• Work with your fellow Commissioners in a professional, courteous manner
• Do your homework, be prepared, in advance, for each meeting
• Be open minded, willing to consider all options, regardless of their source
• Ask questions and express your opinions, respectfully, until you are heard
• Always support all decisions made by the Board, regardless of your personal opinion
• Show respect and courtesy, at all times, to those you represent
• Participate in training related to Board functions
• Be willing to say that you do not know, when you don't, but that you will find out
• Always remember, and respect, the difference between governance and operations
• Always, ALWAYS, remember, the priority is the success of the organization, not of your personal agenda