Transparency bill will help ADDs improve accountability

The first two lessons I learned as a state representative were: I do not have a monopoly on brains, and when one of us does something in conflict with our code of ethics, we all look bad.

As a legislator, I can be perceived as a voice for many, a conduit for deliberative democracy and someone elected by individuals who will make certain I do my job well. I have never perceived my position as one of power but as one that demanded leadership skills to be a change-agent.

One of our chief responsibilities as legislators is to continuously look for ways to carry out government services more fairly and efficiently. We provide a critical check and balance as we make sure that the people’s work is being done and their tax dollars are being put to their best use.

One area I think needs more in-depth review is our 15 area development districts (ADDs). They play a powerful role in our communities by delivering critical services.

For example, by working with the Workforce Investment Board, your local ADD can build thriving communities that entice industry because it guides job-training dollars.

Think of the gift families receive when adult children remain close to home because there is a job that matches their skill set.

With around $58 million of your taxes from the state and federal governments, ADDs also preserve the dignity, self-respect and independence of Kentucky’s elders and individuals with disabilities.

ADDs coordinate home-delivered meals for the elderly so participants can remain healthy and independent and are not haunted by hunger and food insecurity. Through home-visitation programs, ADDs allow seniors to avoid nursing home care.

Unfortunately, the black-eye principle I mentioned applies to ADDs, and when one does wrong, they all suffer.

In 2014, former Auditor Adam Edelen released an alarming audit of the Bluegrass Area Development District that continues to cause pain across the state. The General Assembly has not fixed the underlying issue but we have an opportunity to do so this legislative session.

I will sponsor a transparency bill that will provide relief for the ADDs that do their work proudly and want citizens to know they value every contribution from hard-earned tax dollars.

My goal is simple: for ADDs to be as open and ethical as we expect all government to be.

We need a brighter spotlight, so we can praise what they are doing well and immediately begin fixing problems.

I see my legislation as the map that can lead us there. It has the potential to be the biggest change-agent law the General Assembly can pass this year.

This story was originally published February 21, 2016 at 7:55 AM with the headline "Transparency bill will help ADDs improve accountability."