Salisbury, MD… Wicomico County Executive Bob Culver has announced he has recruited a group of skilled individuals to serve as his “transition team” as he settles in to his new position.
“Since the County Charter makes no provisions for an official “transition” during a change in Executive, not as much was accomplished during the month between the election and the swearing-in ceremony as I had hoped,” Culver said. “Then the holidays were upon us. I want to gain as much detailed knowledge about how Wicomico is functioning – what is working and what isn’t – as soon as possible.
By using a “transition team”, it will speed up the process of research and analysis of fiscal issues; policies and procedures; and function and structure of County government. The members will conduct in-depth reviews and audits of our largest departments as well as advise on other critical issues, all pro bono. Their expertise, reputation for fairness, and concern for Wicomico County will not only provide great insight and wisdom, but will generate fresh ideas for moving our County forward.
The following people have agreed to serve on the team:
- Gail Bartkovich - retired member of County Council
- Ron Boltz, MBA, President/CEO Alarm Engineering; 2nd Vice Chair Greater Salisbury Committee; Sunrise Rotary, Trinity UMC Homeless Project
- Robert Eaton, J.D. with Honors; Hearing Examiner WCBOE 2012 to date; City Solicitor for Salisbury 1986-1999; Chair, Wicomico County Ethics Commission 1986-2012
- Edwin Heatwole, Principal Engineer - AWB Engineers; retired Wicomico County Public Works
- Brian Kilgore, MBA; Owner, Eastern Shore Coffee and Water & Eastern Shore Self-Storage; served 6 years on Board of Education.
- Robert L. Moore, CPA; President and Managing Partner, Moore & Company, P.A.; 35 years experience; chairs numerous non-profit Boards and Committees, including for BOE and County.
- John Terrell, Real Estate Sales; retired Deputy Director, Recreation, Parks & Tourism, Wicomico County
In addition to analyzing departments, this group will make recommendations on the re-branding of the County and social issues like the heroin epidemic and homelessness.
“We have met twice so far and the meetings have been very productive,” said Culver. “This is a group that I trust and that has the best interest of Wicomico County at heart. As business owners and community and civic leaders, they have so much knowledge and experience to share. I am humbled and honored by their service”.
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54 comments:
Great team, Bob. They will do well for us.
Very impressive. These are quality people with great integrity. God bless them for being willing to try and help figure out this mess!
All I can say is WOW! Great to see some new blood (with great educations and talents)step up for the County. Thanks to all for your service.
Now this is what a leader does! Great work Bob. These are real people of character. What a breath of fresh air for our county. Thanks for the transparency too.
Just got home from work and had to check on what's new. This is great! NOW we will have some honest people leading the charge for change in the county. No back room deals and bait and switch with these people. Honesty - what a concept.
5:43 - AMEN! I have faith in them!
WOW!!! AND PRO BONO TOO!
Look at how many studies wicomico county has paid big money to outside agencies to tell them how to do things and these guys are local and know the infrastructure better than anyone.
Great job.
Start with a new broom at the civic center and head west.
Great group of people and very respected.
Beauchamp and Mackel gone and this great team announced all in last 24 hours! Culver is on fire. Hope he doesn't stop until all the cancers are gone. Get the ones that share your offices. They are no friends of yours or the county.
5:57 - you are so right. Pollitt never met a study he didn't like. Same for Strasberg, Mackes, Beauchamp. This is such great news. Sunlight has come to county government. Men and women of integrity will take back our county. I am thrilled for the employees.
THANK YOU to this great group for sharing your abilities. The fact that you are so willingly sharing your time and talents to improve our County gives me hope for the future. It is a wonderful feeling to have hope again! God bless!
Know many of this team personally and can only say this is a fine group of people. Each has worked hard both for themselves and their community. Another great job Bob.
Ennis is next! Take one of our deputy directors at the detention center. We have two.
Mr. Culver, your off to a great start with the decisions and changes made so far. Love to see all this "positive" energy going forth.
I thank all that have stepped up to the plate to make Wicomico County the "jewel" it's meant to be.
At least Bob has the guts to try and change this direction we've been going.....doing the same ole thing sure hasn't worked for years!
I am so happy to see some new people involved. Pollitt went to the same old names for everything. It was predictable who he would pick and what the outcome would be...NOTHING! His committees and commissions were a joke. He thought it was some kind of privilege to be appointed. This group of Culver's are workers, business owners who have to meet payroll, people who have dedicated themselves to PRODUCTIVE community service. These are not people trying to build a resume or looking for their name in lights. They are first class, honest hardworking people who want to improve the county. Thank you so much for your leadership and dedication to the people of Wicomico County.
Ennis should be next. Then Craemer and Stausburg. Wow sweep it Bob
You need to take a hard long look at the liquor board and staff as well. Shady crap been going on for years there.
STRASBERG HAS TO GO...
9:40 p.m.
AMEN!
Bob has great ideas and vision for the county. He's off off to a good start. Mackes and Mackel were released with basis and cause considering the business nature of Bob.
The comments need to be informed comments -- with basis and fact. I think she does very well so I'm confused on the recommendation.
One point to look at is which deputy is most suitable to take the position of department head (if there are 2 available) - considering the statement made. If this is in deed a reputable suggestion, why not take it forward? As an employee there may be insight regarding the ability of the 2 that you are recommending. I believe Bob deserves a team he can trust and is going to work with him on his vision for the 'county'. I believe Bob needs to take a look at Strausberg and his commitment to the new executives vision for the county and citizens.
Anonymous said...
Ennis is next! Take one of our deputy directors at the detention center. We have two.
January 6, 2015 at 6:33 PM
Wrong answer. Bet she moves up.
Someone has a boner for Ennis and we will soon find out who that employee or former employ is and they will be fully exposed.
It appears that those complaining about Ennis are in Corrections and maybe Sheriff's. It won't be hard to figure out who you are. From what I hear Corrections is a mess, so maybe you need to get your house in order yourselves before Culver needs to step in. Hope by now you realize he won't put up with any crap and he will expose the rotten apples. So instead of attacking Ennis, you need to get busy in your own house.
Bob has a fine transition team. It's obvious that Bob believes in hard work ethics with what he has done in just 30 days! I don't expect miracles, I just want change for the best that Wicomico County can be! If employees are doing their jobs, they shouldn't have to fear change at all!
This is another post that should be at the top all day today, not buried.
the health department was given money (by way of raising the license fees for our food service businesses) They have two inspectors. Where did the money go for the new inspectors. It wasn't used for new hires. where is the money? I see a cut there.
Bob -
Beware Luis Luna!
I sincerely hope that Mr. Culver contemplates the future of Michelle Ennis in Human Resources. She has a lot of book learning but is seriously lacking in common sense and will only do what makes her look indispensable. Mr. Culver should realize that a lot of problems are covered up by her in addition to her foul mouth and lack of respect she exhibits in that office. The county can do much better and do so by using the common sense approach. Mr. Culver should only be surrounded by those he can completely trust and have the County's vested interest at heart. Ennis does not pass this smell test and Mr. Culver should be very wary, both personally & professionally, when dealing or around this person. She cannot be trusted and puts the County in a terrible liability position.
1:31 LOL
First question to 1:44 pm. Can you be trusted?? Your attitude is undesirable in any work place. Apparently you're just venting and do not know Michele Ennis taking your sour attitude out on anyone. If your that unhappy maybe you should change jobs: the County/City does not want you.
yes if doing everything by the county handbook makes you a liability then I guess that would be her. Smh
Yes I guess if following the county handbook to a T makes you a liability then that would be her
I believe the comments against Ennis are coming from Corrections. Everyone knows that department is full of problems. Some of your leadership is to blame. By calling out Ennis, you are exposing just how screwed up your department is. Are you foolish enough to think complaints haven't gone to Culver on the leadership of Corrections and select employees? You are lucky he has bigger fish to fry now, but rest assured, your day will come. In case you haven't noticed, he pays attention to detail. He won't be hands off like Ricky P.
urine and alcohol tests for all employees. oh no then the county website would have to add another browser for job postings.
DOES ANYBODY REALLY GET CORRECTED AT CORRECTIONS?
in response to 1:44PM. on behalf of the Human Resources Team which would not exist without Michele Ennis' ambition to succeed. She has been a positive influence in meeting the goals of the County and bringing respect and trust to the Human Resource Department. We, as a department, are highly insulted by any statement that we would disrespect our director Michele Ennis. Michele is a very trustworthy and honest individual who has worked very hard for the county. She is committed to the employees, citizens (both internal and external) and the future of this county government. Assumptions shouldn't be made. Try learning the reality before making allegations for the obvious unknown. Do not allow one persons fears to speak on behalf of any group when you truly don't know the facts.
As for our leader, Mr. Culver, we are looking forward to a bright and prosperous future.
9:03 - WONDERFUL COMMENT! I have this same impression of Michele Ennis and it is so refreshing to see employees come to her defense. The comments by 1:44 are from a very sad, mean-spirited person. Some people are intimidated by smart, professional women. The fact that she has worked so hard to educate herself and advance in life is to be commended. I personally found her to be thoughtful, honest and can quote the Charter almost by chapter and verse! The fact that she recognizes and accepts there has been a change in leadership and she is working to support it, PROVES she has the good of the County at heart and isn't working a personal agenda like some other department heads - recently departed as well as a couple still on board. I happen to know that she has encouraged her department to embrace change and has assured them that everything will go well. No hand wringing or fear mongering from her! She exemplifies professionalism and some others would do well to follow her example. How many of YOUR employees would write a post in support of you? Bravo to her team!
Well according to some, including her employees, Ennis walks on water and has no flaws due to her knowledge of the County Handbook. Once again, plenty of book sense but obviously lacking in common sense. Her foul mouth and her arrogance only speaks to those who encompass the same mentality. As for being a professional woman, it takes a lot more than just book knowledge to exhibit professionalism in the workplace. Anybody can memorize a handbook and spout out that memory but it takes a real professional to just not do the talk but to do the walk. The County can do much better while at the same time minimizing the liability of a person like Ennis. Time will tell but at what costs?
You need to focus on yourself, find happiness. If not for yourself, consider it a request from your peers.
11:23 What makes you right and everyone else wrong? Her professionalism goes beyond being able to quote the Charter. Your veiled threats about liability issues comes through loud and clear. Be a grown up and state what they are. Is it because she has your number and you've been reprimanded by your superiors or by her? It sure sounds like you need to be. There are many loose cannons in the county government. Pollitt let the foxes run the hen houses. Culver WAS ELECTED BY A LARGE MAJORITY to clean Wicomico up. It appears you are one of the foxes that needs to be eliminated. Culver is far smarter than his enemies give him credit for - and he is surrounding himself with extremely smart people - not just book smart, but people smart. The disgruntled trouble makers will be rooted out.
Hey 9:47, who said this person even works for, or has ever worked for, the County>? A really good and fully complete audit of her department's policies and procedures will tell the tale. Mr. Culver, and the County as a whole, will be placed into a very costly liability situation due the lack of common sense this person daily demonstrates. It's long overdue for a County wide clean up inclusive of this department.
3:52
It's pretty obvious that it's someone that worked for the county and apparently forgot to memorize their handbook even though they say it's so easy to do and must've got burned by one of the rules and now is a disgruntled employee or ex employee. But the question is why take this out on someone that Must enforce these guidelines?? Grow up and take responsibility for your own actions and quit trying to push them off on others
but it sounds like you need to worry because the way Bob is going now it sure seems like he knows the ones that enforce the county guidelines and the ones that are just deadweight
And remember he was voted in to make a change and he has done a great job so far buddy I'm sure he is not done because there are people in high roles whom are basically puppets. This is one thing you cannot say about Ennis. Anyone that has dealt with her or knows her can see how passionate she is about her role in the government. People like you have tried to hold her down from day one and she has fought through this diversity with flying colors. The only people scared of her in the county are the ones that do not know how to do their own job as they should be
She is what she is. Her job could better provide for the County, as well as her personal/professional growth, if she were to look at her actions within the office place including her offensive language. All that is being said is that the County would be much better without her and her demeaning actions and speech. In addition, she has been given more than equal chances to advance and had to fight for nothing. Perhaps Bob will see her for what she portrays to be. Time will tell.
Oh people, please just settle down. This is a wait & see situation and time will tell if the proper actions are/were taken. Good luck, Bob.
You all said the same thing when Ricky took oever!!! Two years from now you ALL will want their heads on a stick. Typical no class or loyalties salisbury.
I am sure John Terrell has enough sense to feel out the old Mackes,Sarbanes,and Norm Goneaway puppets and see the real picture at the civic center and the rest of its branches.
Anonymous said...
I sincerely hope that Mr. Culver contemplates the future of Michelle Ennis in Human Resources. She has a lot of book learning but is seriously lacking in common sense and will only do what makes her look indispensable. Mr. Culver should realize that a lot of problems are covered up by her in addition to her foul mouth and lack of respect she exhibits in that office. The county can do much better and do so by using the common sense approach. Mr. Culver should only be surrounded by those he can completely trust and have the County's vested interest at heart. Ennis does not pass this smell test and Mr. Culver should be very wary, both personally & professionally, when dealing or around this person. She cannot be trusted and puts the County in a terrible liability position.
January 7, 2015 at 1:44 PM
She's already got her hooks in him. She will be the next County Administrator or Deputy County Administrator. Mark my words on that.
Anonymous said...
Yes I guess if following the county handbook to a T makes you a liability then that would be her
January 7, 2015 at 3:04 PM
Thanks Michelle.
Start looking at purchasing agent Rick Konrad! Internal. Many external employees know his bullying! Think about the people under him particularly dawn Luchaco. She has suffered for years under him!
She gets along with City and County dept. heads and all others. Something is wrong here when he treats her like a person who is uneducated and stupid! When I call and ask about a project and Rick is not there and Dawn has not been informed, it makes me wonder why a department consisting of three people why Rick Konrad cannot communicate with two people?
Chuck Cook
January 8 at 12:05pm · Edited ·
And the Bob Culver Guillotine keeps going.
Thanks, Tea Party Executive.
Lee is an outstanding director with an eye for the future. So, it only makes sense to get rid of him if you live in Tea Party land.
*note, the picture is of Councilman Holloway, not Bobby Tea Party Culver.
"Wicomico council surprised over county firings" Delmarvanow.com Link
Liked by Tracy Pollitt, Ben Rayne(wife of Sarah Rayne), Sarah Meyers(City employee at Poplar Hill Mansion) and others.
Jessie Trostle Cocci - Yep. This is sickening. Wonder what direction he's heading? Cuz Lee was doing crazy cool stuff!! Culver wants to go in a 'new' direction. Hmm. I thought Lee was doing a great job of that.
January 8 at 12:23pm · Like · 2
Jessie Trostle Cocci - I'm very redundant. I feel so strongly about it I have to say it twice.
January 8 at 12:23pm · Like
Bill Duck - As soon as I saw he wanted to do a solar project, I knew that's why Culver canned him. For some reason, conservatives hate saving money with solar power. Never figured that one out.
January 8 at 1:02pm · Like · 1
Chuck Cook - Because that is dirty hippy talk, Duck. Everyone knows that fracking is cool and solar is for Communists.
January 8 at 1:06pm · Like · 13
Liked by Jake Day, Lee Whaley(Sarbanes and other Dems you know what)
Ray Perdue - Well when you have depletable resources you have to use those up first.
January 8 at 1:14pm · Like · 5
Chuck Cook - The sun is going to go red giant and engulf the Earth in 4 billion years, Ray. So, time is of the essence in harvesting all those sun rays.
January 8 at 1:23pm · Like
Jonathan Topping - The sun is going to turn "red" one day....it's just waiting to engulf us in its horrible brand of socialism.
January 8 at 1:55pm · Like · 1
Nicholas Blendy - I assume morale is taking a real beating among county employees. I'd recommend that anyone stay away from working for Culver, if possible.
January 8 at 2:55pm · Like · 2
Tracy Pollitt - I love the tea party middle name - I believe this is nothing compared to what we will see!
January 8 at 5:57pm · Like · 2
Chuck Cook - Gonna be a tough four years for Wicomico taxpayers.
January 8 at 5:59pm · Like · 3
Liked by Tracy Pollitt
Rich Hall Elections have consequences.
15 hrs · Like
Some of Chuck Cooks friends are at it again on FB and OneSalisbury. They are putting down the leadership in Wicomico County and stating that the City leadership is much better. Jake Day clicks "LIKE" for his vote of approval.
Alex WersenChuck Cook
Yesterday at 9:18am · Salisbury, MD ·
Sickening. Fortunately, I trust the movement you guys have gotten going in our city to hopefully thwart the forceful hands of the ignorant, greedy, and power hungry that are determined to ruin our country and now our city. Jake Jacob Day Jim Ireton
Donald Trump, say hello to Bob Culver!
The phrase that ushered 'The Donald' into our collective consciousness about a decade ago is...back! "You're Fired!" has become Wicomico County Executive Bob Culver's most ubiquitous - and most impactful - utterance in his first month in office. And it has more than a few people in and around One Salisbury scratching their heads and asking: "To what end?" And..."What's next?"
In the last week, Culver has fired Public Works Director Lee Beauchamp and Finance Director Andy Mackel. They join Tamara Lee-Brooks, the county's former Public Information Officer who Culver fired in his first week on the job in December, and Gary Mackes, the former head of the county's Recreation Parks and Tourism office who resigned December 31st, as high profile county employees who will not be part of Culver's team in the next four years...
Chuck Cook and 7 others like this.
Chuck Cook - Thankfully, our city leaders are much more measured in how they conduct business.
Yesterday at 10:58am · Like · 1
Liked by Jake Day of course.
Travis Sterling - Who is he putting into these positions?
Yesterday at 11:07am · Edited · Like
Alex Wersen - And thank you, Jason Ward, for both sharing the article and clearly caring more about your hometown than many of our current local residents and "leaders". Can't wait for us all to have a good rant session someday!
Yesterday at 11:07am · Like
Travis Sterling - Oh btw, Alex, I finally heard you guys for the first time ever while I was home. You guys are awesome. Just thought I'd awkwardly hijack this article to tell you haha
Yesterday at 11:08am · Like · 4
Alex Wersen - I appreciate it, Travis Sterling! Thank you.
Yesterday at 11:22am · Like · 2
Mike Pusey - I'm still waiting to hear details on this "new direction" Mr. Culver is taking us in.
Yesterday at 11:30am · Like · 4
Mike Pusey - Good article, btw.
Yesterday at 11:34am · Like
Chuck Cook - I just don't get the firing of Lee. That guy was a SOLID public works director. And Culver was his reference for getting hired. Double U Tee Eff.
Yesterday at 12:04pm · Like · 9
Jessie Trostle Cocci? Isn't she that dumb broad that was Jim Ireton's secretary who worked for minimum wage and never got a pay raise. Did all that work for minimal pay and then moved out of town on him. Funny she still trolls Facebook and sticks to her allegiance to the Dumbocraps who run the city Jim Liarton, Jake Gay, Chuck Crook and the rest of the clowns.
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