This episode was recorded in Washington, D.C. at the National Association of Counties Legislative Conference.

Kenneth Wilson is joined by Commissioner Denise Winfrey and Commissioner John O'Grady to discuss the vital yet often understated role of county governments. Commissioner Winfrey, representing Will County, Illinois, and the immediate past president of the National Association of Counties (NACo), shares her experiences and the importance of counties in providing day-to-day services.

Commissioner Winfrey emphasizes how counties are key in attracting and retaining a talented workforce by offering competitive benefits through payroll system portals. She points out the leverage that counties have in negotiating favorable rates for essential services like insurance, as well as perks such as travel deals. She also sheds light on her intensive travel schedule and responsibilities during her tenure as NACo president, which involved a significant amount of remote work and fostering important relationships with federal administration in Washington, D.C.

The conversation then turns to the common public oversight of the roles of county commissioners. Despite their critical function in managing various essential services, such as health departments, judicial systems, police services, and more, they are often overshadowed by mayoral and other high-profile positions.

Public Service Impact: "But it's the work we do, the work that our employees all do. It's it it touches everyone's lives day in and day out." — Commissioner John O'Grady

The conversation shifts its focus to the economic and cultural characteristics that define Will County, Illinois. As a rapidly growing county with a population of about 700,000, it boasts an inland port and a significant intermodal presence, along with warehouses and bustling river activities. Cultural elements are also highlighted, including the county's historical significance, as seen with locations like the old Joliet Prison featured in the Blues Brothers movie. Furthermore, the county's dining scene is a testament to its cultural diversity, offering an array of cuisines that reflect the mosaic of its population.

Kenneth Wilson compares the similarities and differences between the food scenes of Franklin County, Ohio and the greater Chicago area, acknowledging the intricacies of each locality's culinary landscape.

Commissioner Winfrey remarks on her significant contributions to NACo, particularly her efforts in convening commissions that focus on relevant issues like housing affordability, mental health, and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on county operations. A notable project she mentions is the AI-generated children’s book about counties set to be distributed in libraries, which underwent a rigorous process to ensure it was representative and free from bias.

The Integration of AI in Everyday Life: "Because what some people aren't aware of is that AI is already here. We're already using it, have been for quite some time. It's just now we're looking at generative AI differently." — Commissioner Denise Winfrey

They further explore how counties can utilize AI to automate redundant tasks, leading to a more efficient delivery of services, though they caution that human oversight remains imperative. The commissioners and Kenneth Wilson agree on the value of NACo's role in bringing together various voices to share best practices, advocate at the federal level, and provide leadership training programs like the High Performance Leadership Academy.

In recognition of their unique responsibilities, the guests discuss the county's instrumental role during the pandemic — from setting up daily administrative calls and monthly health updates to addressing needs such as...