In My Opinion: by James Bell

They call it a “Retreat”. That’s where public officials run off to some distant location far removed from the citizens and media. Or more appropriately, Webster defines ‘retreat’ as “an act or process of withdrawing especially from what is difficult, dangerous, or disagreeable”.

Last week the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, department heads and staff headed out to Pine Mountain, Georgia to determine the budget for 2010.

According to the Carl Vinson Institute of Georgia a retreat is “an opportunity for the governing body to come together in a relaxed setting away from daily pressures and distractions in order to regroup, refocus, and plan to better meet community needs. Unlike most regular meetings, a retreat allows for plenty of time to discuss issues and concerns.”

I have a suggestion for Douglas County officials, how about retreating to the $45 million courthouse and “Citizen’s Hall” built by taxpayers to serve the needs of our government. How about putting budget discussions on cable access TV where the public can view their actions.

Retreats are a waste of tax dollars. We pay for transportation, lodging, food and venue at a cost of thousands of dollars to taxpayers.

Carl Vinson Institute says retreat participants are “able to focus their attention on broader issues and concerns when they are away from the day-to-day distractions and interruptions that occur "back home." They also are more attuned to their relationships with each other. The simple fact that participants take the time and trouble required to travel to a different site demonstrates a commitment to invest themselves in the retreat process.”

Now, doesn’t that just make you warm and fuzzy?

It’s interesting that our public officials may be more productive outside of the county.

Perhaps we should ship them all off to some remote island where productivity can prevail!