My commitment continues
"If you have to compromise your current commitments to work toward a new goal, attaining that goal may not be worth the price."
I returned Thursday afternoon from the annual Washington State Hospital Conference, held in Seattle. Although I am very focused on becoming your new PUD Commissioner, I refuse to pursue this goal at the expense of my commitment as Commissioner for Jefferson County Public Hospital District #2, aka Jefferson Healthcare, a post I have held for over 40 years.
Many would say that I should have passed on this WSHA educational program to allow more time to work on my PUD campaign, but, that is just not me. When I make a commitment, I do everything in my power to honor it. I would make the same level of commitment to the PUD, should you, the voters, elect me to represent you as your PUD Commissioner.
There were many great programs, some specific to healthcare management, while others covered governance, such as "The Nexus of Strategy and Governance in Times of Disruptive Change." and "Reflecting and Serving Our Increasingly Diverse Communities". These sessions will help me stay open to all possibilities while still logically assessing them before proceeding.
One presenter reminded us of the old Wayne Gretzky quote "Skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it has been." I am not much for sports quotes, but these are great words to live by when doing the planning for the future, so critical to an organization's success.
I learned a great deal during these three days, but it is good to be home again!!!
Thanks
Tony
Tony
Friday, October 17, 2014
Thursday, October 16, 2014
PLEASE PASS THIS ALONG TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW
The Leader did not publish their own question #5
Below are the questions, in lighter type, sent out by the Leader to both PUD Candidates for the Wednesday (October 15) PT / Jefferson county Leader Voters Guide. We were directed to answer all five questions in 250 words of less. My responses, as submitted, less than 250 words, are in darker type. Questions #5 was not printed in the guide, I can only assume that is due to excess words in my opponent's response.
Leader questions:
PUD COMMISSIONER
Name: Anthony F. (Tony) De Leo
Age: 65
Years lived in your district: 16 years, lifetime Jefferson County resident
Qualifications: 40+ years in an elected Jefferson County office
Relevant experience: Commissioner, Jefferson Co. Public Hospital District #2, since 1973, still serving.
1) What separates you from your opponent in terms of experience to be a PUD commissioner?
Over 40 years of service in an elected office, working collaboratively on a board, trained in the Open Public Meetings and Public Records Acts. I know and respect the difference between Board and staff duties and responsibilities.
2) Have you signed up to make a donation to the PUD's Power Boost program, an initial effort to collect money to help low-income customers pay their power bill? Why or why not?
We have contributed. This program is a start, but much more needs to be done.
3) What one PUD policy would you want to see changed during your first year in office?
Provide a substantial, coordinated, assistance program, including energy efficiency upgrades, for our less fortunate neighbors, with rigorous pre-screening and monitoring.
4) Along with electricity, water and sewer services, the PUD has taken on future management of the broadband internet system in East Jefferson County. Does the PUD have the capacity to shepherd broadband, a key driver of economic development?
With the PUD/NoaNet fiber optic system, our PUD can legally only sell access to your Internet Service Provider (ISP), so your service depends on their business plan, but laws may change. We have a very capable PUD staff.
5) What do you say to voters who wonder why an elected public healthcare district commissioner wants also to be an elected PUD commissioner? Why both?
I filed for the same reasons that, I hope, others file; I see things that could be improved, I have the related experience and qualifications, and feel that I can make a difference.
I have served as your Hospital Commissioner for over 40 years while most of that time, working a full time job. I am now retired and have the time and energy to devote to the PUD position while still continuing my commitment to my Hospital Commission duties.
The roles of a Hospital Commissioner and PUD Commissioner are very similar and serve the same areas of our county. Two legal reviews were done on this, no conflicts found.
I will contact the Leader tomorrow and try to arrange publication of questing #5.
Running for a public office can be an odd experience, at times.
Thanks for your support and, especially,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTE!!!!
The Leader did not publish their own question #5
Below are the questions, in lighter type, sent out by the Leader to both PUD Candidates for the Wednesday (October 15) PT / Jefferson county Leader Voters Guide. We were directed to answer all five questions in 250 words of less. My responses, as submitted, less than 250 words, are in darker type. Questions #5 was not printed in the guide, I can only assume that is due to excess words in my opponent's response.
Leader questions:
PUD COMMISSIONER
Name: Anthony F. (Tony) De Leo
Age: 65
Years lived in your district: 16 years, lifetime Jefferson County resident
Qualifications: 40+ years in an elected Jefferson County office
Relevant experience: Commissioner, Jefferson Co. Public Hospital District #2, since 1973, still serving.
1) What separates you from your opponent in terms of experience to be a PUD commissioner?
Over 40 years of service in an elected office, working collaboratively on a board, trained in the Open Public Meetings and Public Records Acts. I know and respect the difference between Board and staff duties and responsibilities.
2) Have you signed up to make a donation to the PUD's Power Boost program, an initial effort to collect money to help low-income customers pay their power bill? Why or why not?
We have contributed. This program is a start, but much more needs to be done.
3) What one PUD policy would you want to see changed during your first year in office?
Provide a substantial, coordinated, assistance program, including energy efficiency upgrades, for our less fortunate neighbors, with rigorous pre-screening and monitoring.
4) Along with electricity, water and sewer services, the PUD has taken on future management of the broadband internet system in East Jefferson County. Does the PUD have the capacity to shepherd broadband, a key driver of economic development?
With the PUD/NoaNet fiber optic system, our PUD can legally only sell access to your Internet Service Provider (ISP), so your service depends on their business plan, but laws may change. We have a very capable PUD staff.
5) What do you say to voters who wonder why an elected public healthcare district commissioner wants also to be an elected PUD commissioner? Why both?
I filed for the same reasons that, I hope, others file; I see things that could be improved, I have the related experience and qualifications, and feel that I can make a difference.
I have served as your Hospital Commissioner for over 40 years while most of that time, working a full time job. I am now retired and have the time and energy to devote to the PUD position while still continuing my commitment to my Hospital Commission duties.
The roles of a Hospital Commissioner and PUD Commissioner are very similar and serve the same areas of our county. Two legal reviews were done on this, no conflicts found.
I will contact the Leader tomorrow and try to arrange publication of questing #5.
Running for a public office can be an odd experience, at times.
Thanks for your support and, especially,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTE!!!!
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
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:
"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
- 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
Monday, October 13, 2014
A day of rest (well, sort of)
"No matter how committed you are to attaining a goal, you must balance that effort with time to rest and time spent with your family".
I took a day off, away from the campaign trail, at least physically. Since I filed for the PUD Commission position, the issues facing our PUD and the needs and concerns of those it serves, are always on my mind.
We had a house full today. Our daughter, her husband, our four grandkids, their big dog, and two of their friends who wanted to meet us. It was a bit noisy and crowded as the the weather kept the kids in the house part of the day. We all went to the Irondale Beach Park for a walk and to allow the kids to burn off some energy.
Good day, had a good visit and still had a bit of time to work on my old 1955 Farmall tractor. I needed to make a couple of parts for it, quite a challenge, but quite rewarding.
Tomorrow is the PUD Citizens' Advisory Board meeting, a great group of dedicated volunteers working to make our PUD better, as am I.
If you have any comments or questions for me, please feel free to contact me:
360 385-6335 (home phone)
360 531-3239 (my cell)
DeLeo4PUD@gmail.com (email)
Thanks and have a great day tomorrow!!
Tony
"No matter how committed you are to attaining a goal, you must balance that effort with time to rest and time spent with your family".
I took a day off, away from the campaign trail, at least physically. Since I filed for the PUD Commission position, the issues facing our PUD and the needs and concerns of those it serves, are always on my mind.
We had a house full today. Our daughter, her husband, our four grandkids, their big dog, and two of their friends who wanted to meet us. It was a bit noisy and crowded as the the weather kept the kids in the house part of the day. We all went to the Irondale Beach Park for a walk and to allow the kids to burn off some energy.
Good day, had a good visit and still had a bit of time to work on my old 1955 Farmall tractor. I needed to make a couple of parts for it, quite a challenge, but quite rewarding.
Tomorrow is the PUD Citizens' Advisory Board meeting, a great group of dedicated volunteers working to make our PUD better, as am I.
If you have any comments or questions for me, please feel free to contact me:
360 385-6335 (home phone)
360 531-3239 (my cell)
DeLeo4PUD@gmail.com (email)
Thanks and have a great day tomorrow!!
Tony
Sunday, October 12, 2014
Well, why don't you...
"When you receive the answer to your question, it might not be what you were expecting, but it is the answer."
Why don't you go door belling, knocking on doors throughout the District, like the rest of the politicians do?
First of all, I am not now, never have been and never will be a "politician"!!! When I decided to run for the PUD Commission position, I made a promise that I would not go door belling, not because I do not care about those I would visit nor due to lack of commitment on my part. I have always tried to treat everyone the way I want to be treated. I do not appreciate unexpected, unknown people showing up on my doorstep, so I am not doing this to others.
Instead, I have written nearly daily in my blog and facebook page, sharing my ideas and concerns on our PUD, and listed my phone number and email address so I can easily be contacted. I have attended every PUD Candidate debates and most other forums and I have worked with people to set up forums that had not previously been planned. I spent three full days of the Jefferson County Fair at my own booth. I have been at every PUD Board and Citizen's advisory meetings and those of many related groups.
Why don't you have full page ads in the local newspapers?
The answer is simple, funding. Aside from the much appreciated contributions from two friends, the costs of my entire campaign have been paid for by my wife and I, much of it from our limited savings. I have spent quite a bit on yard signs, campaign buttons, business cards and ads in the Leader, both print and in their on-line edition and, no matter how important this election is to me, my sense of financial responsibility impacts how much I am willing to spend.
I realize other candidates spend far more money, thousands of dollars, with much of it from campaign contributions. Is a person, willing to spend thousands of dollars of someone else's money on a local election, the person that you want to manage your tax dollars?
Why don't you put on "meet and greet" gatherings?
Again, finances are the major reason that I have not sponsored such events. These events take quite quite a bit of work to be successful and, since my campaign committee consists of my wife and I, we have not, at least yet, had one.
Why don't you use notes during campaign forums?
I prefer to speak from the heart, saying what I really feel, sharing more of who I am, with those attending the candidate debates. When I speak, it may not be as polished and organized as some, but you get a chance to see how I think and react on my feet and see that what I say is what I truly feel is important. When I respond to questions, it is not played from some "sheet music", but from the knowledge I have acquired from over 40 years as an elected Hospital Commissioner and from my research into the operations of and challenges facing our PUD.
Why don't you just continue your Hospital Commissioner commitment and leave the PUD duties to someone else?
Regardless of the out come of the election, I will continue to serve as your elected Commissioner with Jefferson County Public Hospital District #2. For most of the 40+ years I have held this office, I also worked a full-time job. Now that I am retired, I have the additional time and energy needed to perform the duties of both offices.
As to why I decided to run for this office, my reasons are that I saw and still see things about our PUD that could be better and that my experience, knowledge and commitment, I feel, will allow me to truly make a difference, to make it better. The Leader articles, on a weekly basis, about our low income neighbors having their power disconnected, during the cold, dark months of winter, got my attention. One of the cornerstones of our Hospital District (Jefferson Healthcare) has always been that no one will be denied needed medical care, regardless of their ability to pay. I will bring that commitment, to provide for those truly in need, to the PUD Board.
"When you receive the answer to your question, it might not be what you were expecting, but it is the answer."
Why don't you go door belling, knocking on doors throughout the District, like the rest of the politicians do?
First of all, I am not now, never have been and never will be a "politician"!!! When I decided to run for the PUD Commission position, I made a promise that I would not go door belling, not because I do not care about those I would visit nor due to lack of commitment on my part. I have always tried to treat everyone the way I want to be treated. I do not appreciate unexpected, unknown people showing up on my doorstep, so I am not doing this to others.
Instead, I have written nearly daily in my blog and facebook page, sharing my ideas and concerns on our PUD, and listed my phone number and email address so I can easily be contacted. I have attended every PUD Candidate debates and most other forums and I have worked with people to set up forums that had not previously been planned. I spent three full days of the Jefferson County Fair at my own booth. I have been at every PUD Board and Citizen's advisory meetings and those of many related groups.
Why don't you have full page ads in the local newspapers?
The answer is simple, funding. Aside from the much appreciated contributions from two friends, the costs of my entire campaign have been paid for by my wife and I, much of it from our limited savings. I have spent quite a bit on yard signs, campaign buttons, business cards and ads in the Leader, both print and in their on-line edition and, no matter how important this election is to me, my sense of financial responsibility impacts how much I am willing to spend.
I realize other candidates spend far more money, thousands of dollars, with much of it from campaign contributions. Is a person, willing to spend thousands of dollars of someone else's money on a local election, the person that you want to manage your tax dollars?
Why don't you put on "meet and greet" gatherings?
Again, finances are the major reason that I have not sponsored such events. These events take quite quite a bit of work to be successful and, since my campaign committee consists of my wife and I, we have not, at least yet, had one.
Why don't you use notes during campaign forums?
I prefer to speak from the heart, saying what I really feel, sharing more of who I am, with those attending the candidate debates. When I speak, it may not be as polished and organized as some, but you get a chance to see how I think and react on my feet and see that what I say is what I truly feel is important. When I respond to questions, it is not played from some "sheet music", but from the knowledge I have acquired from over 40 years as an elected Hospital Commissioner and from my research into the operations of and challenges facing our PUD.
Why don't you just continue your Hospital Commissioner commitment and leave the PUD duties to someone else?
Regardless of the out come of the election, I will continue to serve as your elected Commissioner with Jefferson County Public Hospital District #2. For most of the 40+ years I have held this office, I also worked a full-time job. Now that I am retired, I have the additional time and energy needed to perform the duties of both offices.
As to why I decided to run for this office, my reasons are that I saw and still see things about our PUD that could be better and that my experience, knowledge and commitment, I feel, will allow me to truly make a difference, to make it better. The Leader articles, on a weekly basis, about our low income neighbors having their power disconnected, during the cold, dark months of winter, got my attention. One of the cornerstones of our Hospital District (Jefferson Healthcare) has always been that no one will be denied needed medical care, regardless of their ability to pay. I will bring that commitment, to provide for those truly in need, to the PUD Board.
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