Matt Dolan candidate for County Executive, Republican

If elected County Executive, what goals would top the list of things that you'd hope to accomplish during your term in office?

A)   Restore the public faith in public servants by running the County with honesty and integrity

B)   Replace our silo service delivery system of human services with a wraparound service system; making individuals one step away from dependence and one step closer to independence;

C)   Establish Cuyahoga Forward, a one-stop-shop for business development; and

D)   Implement job descriptions and requirements that match skill sets, thereby creating measurable standards to determine results

What approach would you take to working with the new County Council to keep lines of communication open in order to achieve consensus on major county wide objectives?

I view the role of the Council as providing a check for the Executive and generating policy initiatives.  In order for the County to be successful, the Council must think in broad, countywide terms and avoid becoming territorial.  I intend to make it very clear that I expect this of the Council.  If there are Council Members that do not share this perspective and act as roadblocks to the County’s progress, I will not be shy about using my position to make it clear to voters they should not be re-elected.

How will Cuyahoga County voters know if the new government structure is working as envisioned?

While changing a culture takes time, I will make it immediately apparent to voters that I intend to hold the County to a higher standard.  My first day in office, I will issue an executive order requiring ethics training and instituting a strict gift policy that will be enforced.  County employees will be evaluated on their merits and those that perform well and embrace a spirit of innovation and creativity will be rewarded while those that do not will be let go.  With this culture shift, County operations will focus on delivering the highest quality services with less hassle and less waste.

Do you believe the new structure has the potential to spark economic growth and job creation in Northeast Ohio?

Yes, I will restore the public/private sector relationship, bringing back the intellectual and financial investment to our community.  I will create Cuyahoga Forward, establishing a one-stop-shop for business development.  As Executive, I will be the strong leader to maintain economic development as a priority.

Do you see a need for further "tinkering" with the County Charter to improve prospects for a successful transition?

The Charter is meant to serve as the guideline for the operation of County government.  As such, it is intentionally vague so that it may withstand the test of time, allowing the administration of government to be fluid and dynamic.  If changes are necessary, they will become apparent fairly quickly as the new government begins to conduct business. 

To learn more about this candidate visit www.matthewdolan.com.