Homan’s presence not legally required
Fred Homan’s influence on county budget and policy is widely discussed among county employees and elected officials, who frequently refer to county operations as “The World of Fred.”
But is the former budget director and current county administrative officer so important that his absence could require the council to stop meeting?
The council was halfway through its 18-minute meeting Monday night and had just finished voting on the five bills on its agenda when Councilman Bryan McIntire asked the question.
Homan, who attends all of the council voting and work sessions as his predecessors did, was absent Monday night.
“Can we proceed without Mr. Homan present?” asked McIntire, the council’s lone Republican.
Councilman Kevin Kamenetz pointed out that Donna Morrison was present and as deputy administrative officer and could “act in (Homan’s) stead.”
McIntire’s query raised the issue: Does the County Charter require the attendance of the county administrative officer? If so, the presence of the deputy might not be good enough.
The CAO position is specifically created in the County Charter. The position is appointed by the county executive, with the approval of the council, and is responsible for the day-to-day functions of the county as well as filling in for the county executive.
The deputy position was created after Homan was appointed nearly three years ago. It is not officially recognized by the charter, and Homan would not likely be able to transfer authority and duties, one council adviser told me.
Thomas Peddicord, the council’s legal adviser, told McIntire and the council that the meeting could continue in Homan’s absence.
“There’s no (charter) requirement that either Mr. Homan or Ms. Morrison be present,” Peddicord said.