When Angenie McCleary stepped into my shoes as Blaine County commissioner a year ago, I was delighted. Now, a year later, I am even more pleased by all that Angenie has accomplished.
My passion has always been public transit in Blaine County. Angenie took over immediately and by February 2009 had developed a comprehensive mobility plan with the input of 57 stakeholders whom she involved in the planning process. As a result, Blaine County received $1.7 million, the largest stimulus grant in the region. This will help Mountain Rides purchase new buses, vans and bus shelters, and increase service. Way to go, Angenie.
Angenie also leads county commissioners' efforts to provide better services to troubled youth. Because of her leadership, there is better coordination among and training for law enforcement officials working with youth who have committed a status offence, such as a runaway or being beyond parental control. Also, the public safety facility is now certified to hold juveniles for 48 hours, which is often enough time for parents and officials to straighten out problems without sending the child out of county.
Drug abuse is always a community concern. Commissioner McCleary's expertise was recently recognized by the Idaho Association of Counties. In June, she was appointed to serve as the statewide representative on the Interagency Committee on Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment for the state Office of Drug Policy.
If this were not enough, Angenie led the commissioners' successful efforts to negotiate 2010 contracts for consolidated dispatch with each of the county's five cities, and everyone knows how tricky these discussions can get.
There is no greater pleasure than passing the mantle of leadership to the next generation. Thank you, Angenie, for your willingness to serve and for your ability to get things done.
Sarah Michael
Ketchum
