Goshen, N.Y. - Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus and the County Legislature have announced a partnership between the New York State Association of Counties, the Dispute Resolution Center and The New York State Dispute Resolution Association, Inc. creating a model Collaborative Governing Program, the first of its kind in New York State.
The Collaborative Governing Program is a comprehensive system for intra-governmental cooperation grounded in the skills and strategies of interest-based collaboration. It results in good public policy and cost-effective quality services. This is achieved through the education and coaching of elected officials and government personnel.
“I am pleased that Orange County has piloted a program aimed at providing enhanced and coordinated efforts with the mutual goal of providing better services to the constituents of Orange County” Neuhaus said. “I want to thank Donna Ramlow, Niki Rowe, Dr. Bernie Tracy, all the coaches and county staff members that make it possible.”
Collaborative Governing workshops and training opportunities have been provided to Elected Officials, Department Heads, Directors and middle management employees throughout the County. Several managerial employees from the Human Resources Department are trained mediators thanks to this partnership.
“Partnering with Orange County has been an exciting opportunity for the Dispute Resolution Center” said Ramlow, Executive Director of the Dispute Resolution Center. “I look forward to continuing our strong relationship and helping County government in its mission to provide great service.”
Added Chairman of the Legislature Steve Brescia: “The Collaborative Governing Program has greatly improved the Legislature’s ability to reach consensus on important topics. By working together we can all accomplish great things for Orange County Government.”
For more information, contact Justin Rodriguez, Assistant to the County Executive for Communications and Media Relations at 845.291.3255 or jrodriguez@orangecountygov.com.
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