At the recent Tazewell County Strategic Planning meeting, board members emphasized the urgent need for clearer definitions of their roles and responsibilities. The discussion highlighted a significant generational gap among board members, with some serving for over 27 years while others are relatively new. This disparity has led to a call for mentorship and knowledge sharing to bridge the learning curve for newer members.

One board member passionately advocated for a structured approach to education, suggesting the creation of a "County Board College." This initiative would provide regular training sessions on essential topics such as finance, departmental functions, and the intricacies of the budget process. The goal is to equip all members with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions that reflect the needs of their constituents.

Another member pointed out the importance of understanding the county's assets, citing the county cemetery as an example of a resource that has been overlooked. This lack of awareness underscores the need for comprehensive education on all aspects of county governance.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of ongoing education and engagement, ensuring that all board members, regardless of their tenure, are well-informed and capable of serving their community effectively. As Tazewell County moves forward, the focus will be on fostering a culture of learning and collaboration among board members to enhance decision-making and community service.