Leadership Washington explores local government

The Washington Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership class explored the ins and outs of city and county government last month.

The class started their day off on Feb. 9 at the new city hall building, with Mayor Jaron Rosien showing off the building’s new addition and introducing all of the City employees.

Presentations were given by City Administrator Deanna McCusker, Fire Chief Brendan DeLong, Washington Deputy Shamus Altenhofen and Finance Director Kelsey Brown. All spoke on their duties in said roles and explained to the class new upcoming items they were working on and past achievements. All classmates got to tour the entire building and do a few fun activities, including a fire equipment demo and a fatal vision demo.

The class then traveled to the Emergency Operations Center for a learning lunch given by County Courthouse officials. Those attending were Dan Widmer and Tammy Stewart from the Washington County Auditors Office; County Attorney John Gish; County Engineer Jacob Thorius; Jeff Garrett, County Treasurer; and GIS Coordinator Dewy Royer. All spoke on their job duties, upcoming elections and new business in the community.

Sheriff Jared Schneider and crew (Shawn Ellingson, Eric Weber, Nathan Schmuecker, Chad Ellis) chatted with the group about the county sheriff's department, problems that are currently affecting the area and recent happenings within the department.

Next up was the jail tour, K-9 unit demonstration, and 911 dispatch tour. This day is always a class favorite, as they get to experience and see things most community members don't.

Last but not least, the final stop was at the Washington County Ambulance Barn. Director Jeremy Peck and group explained all the new equipment, call volumes, and all the achievements they have had since =taking over the ambulance just a few short years ago.