Housing Rehabilitation Online Program Operation Refinement Function of a Department Head

Basic Obligation of Department Head

To carry out the objectives of the administration through management of resources under the Department to which they are assigned

The Nature of Local Governing

Many local governments traditionally depend on direct budgetary assistance from county, state and federal sources to operate day to day. The “shrinking tax base” or incentive laden economic development (through tax relief) contributes heavily to the reliance of this assistance.

If the traditional sources are not available to combat potential shortfalls in the budget, local officials will “creatively” shift funding from discretionary (or proactive) programs to essential services as allowed by the regulations set.

To move funds from programs that will return some additional monies (if successful) to the local administration, to essential services will cause greater demand upon that money to cover the cost of doing business.

Common Perceptions of a Department Head

• Real
  • Downline Authority Figure that maintains basic compliance with stated objectives of the Administration
  • Prestige position within Urban Development circles; Pointperson
  • Viewed as a temporary assignment because of its political nature; Elections
• Ideal
  • Housing Rehabilitation Advocate that views existing housing stock vital as newly constructed housing
  • Supporter of the Housing Rehabilitation Coordinator and staff through internal process improvement
  • Active promoter of the program throughout the community it serves
• Actual
  • Serve at the will of the Mayor, City or County Manager
  • Removed from the day to day operations of the program
  • Will not have a background in housing rehabilitation
  • Will divert CDBG funds to other civic services
  • Minimal interest in building downline organization cohesion