Joe, you could be right. The position could cost the County even more money if the person selected is ineffective. The position could also save a lot of money. It all depends on the person selected. (That is if the position is actually created because, after all, it's been discussed for at least twelve years, as the date on the old newspaper in the picture suggests.)

It's important to keep in mind that saving a lot of money -- the goal with this position -- can be painful too. Savings could include layoffs, revising job duties and work schedules, changing vendors, etc. This "Chief Cost Cutter" will no doubt ruffle some feathers, if he or she is really doing his or her job.

I think it would also be hard to evaluate this position. For one, contracts and leases have already been signed, which may take one or more year to "un-do" or change. So, certain savings may be a year or more away, not immediate.

Perhaps the annual review of this person could be a poll of county workers to see if he or she is liked or not. If despised, the position is probably saving money. If everyone thinks he or she is just wonderful then it may be to the taxpayers' detriment.

It's all a non-event until the position is created though.