In a recent Ottawa County government meeting, tensions rose as commissioners debated the appointment of Ben Wetmore as interim county administrator. Commissioner Rode voiced strong concerns about Wetmore's leadership, citing a significant lack of trust among department heads and employees. \"They do not want to follow Mr. Wetmore. They do not trust him,\" Rode stated, emphasizing the need for the administration to reflect the voices of the employees.
The discussion highlighted a broader issue of balancing employee satisfaction with the needs of constituents. Commissioner Curran argued for a balanced approach, noting that many county employees are also residents and constituents. \"If you have unhappy employees, our constituents are going to have bad experiences,\" Curran warned, advocating for a workplace environment that fosters productivity and morale.
The meeting also touched on the importance of maintaining a proper chain of command within the county government. Curran pointed out that direct interactions between commissioners and department heads could undermine the authority of the county administrator, suggesting that complaints should be directed through the established hierarchy.
Despite the concerns raised, the motion to appoint Wetmore passed with a narrow vote, reflecting a divided board. The decision has sparked further discussions about leadership and trust within the county's administration, with public comments indicating a desire for accountability and responsiveness from elected officials. As the county moves forward, the implications of this appointment and the ongoing concerns about employee morale will likely remain at the forefront of community discussions.