Tazewell County staff present department goals, seek to finalize countywide strategic plan by Saturday

A county staff member presented proposed departmental goals and a draft vision and mission framework at a Tazewell County Board meeting on matters ranging from broadband access to courthouse planning, and said staff expects to finalize countywide goals after a workshop on Saturday.

The presentation grouped priorities under “opportunities” — including broadband, facility upgrades, grant administration, employee engagement, and bicentennial planning — and “threats,” such as pension fund pressures, a $4,000,000 shortfall cited for the state budget, cybersecurity, aging facilities and workforce, and possible loss of zoning authority. The staff member said departments set goals and assigned action items, champions and timelines to guide work over the next four years.

County staff emphasized the importance of a clear vision. “Where do you want to go?” the staff member asked, quoting the Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland to make the point that a purpose-driven plan guides choices and investment. The staff member added, “If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will get you there.”

Department-level goals summarized by staff included: - Animal control: expand facility space, provide tools and resources to…