During the recent Person County Commissioners Budget Work Session on June 6, 2025, a significant revision to the county's organizational chart was proposed, aiming to enhance clarity and representation within local governance. The county manager presented a revised chart that places "voters of Person County" at the top, emphasizing the role of citizens in electing their leaders. This change is intended to streamline the organizational structure and highlight the relationship between the Board of Commissioners and various advisory boards.
Commissioners engaged in a thoughtful discussion about the implications of this revision, particularly regarding the inclusion of young residents who are not yet eligible to vote. One commissioner raised concerns that the current representation might alienate younger individuals who are becoming increasingly interested in local governance and community issues. The discussion underscored the importance of fostering civic engagement among all residents, regardless of their voting status.
The county manager responded by affirming that the organizational chart is designed to reflect the elected officials' accountability to the voters, while also encouraging young people to participate in the political process. The conversation highlighted the need for ongoing dialogue about how to engage younger citizens and ensure they feel represented in local government discussions.
Additionally, the commissioners acknowledged confusion among members of the Economic Development Commission regarding their roles and authority, suggesting that clearer representation on the organizational chart could help address these issues.
As the meeting concluded, the commissioners took a brief recess, allowing for further reflection on the proposed changes and their potential impact on community engagement and governance in Person County. The revisions to the organizational chart are seen as a step towards a more inclusive and transparent local government structure, with the hope of inspiring greater participation from all residents in the democratic process.