Monthly Officer Update | December 2024
Josh Harville PE., NACE VP Southeast
“Christmas is a season not only of rejoicing but of reflection” – Winston Churchill. As we look forward to time with family and friends during this Christmas season, I wanted for us to take this opportunity to reflect on just a few examples of the wonderful partners we have at NACE.
I am so proud of the degree I earned from Auburn University. I graduated in December of 2001, and it is still one of the best Christmas gifts of all. But it’s the relationships and networks that I’ve been afforded over the years that have helped me better understand what a successful County Engineer or Highway Official can be. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve got a long way to go to reach the feeling of success, but thanks to those that I work alongside and those that came before us, I can at least see the path.
In Alabama, we are so fortunate to have a strong Association of County Commissions that empower their affiliate organizations such as the Association of County Engineers of Alabama to engage and participate in numerous opportunities throughout the year that allow for professional growth, networking, and input in to state issues, just to name a few. The Association of County Engineers of Alabama, and too many mentoring AL County Engineers for me to name, are who brought me to NACE. NACE has expanded my network to friends and mentors across the country. My northern mentors have shared their techniques for ice and snow removal and my friends from that part of the world are laughing now because they know just how few resources we put toward that in central Alabama. My point is, if you’re up against a challenge, there is no better resource than your peers and NACE provides connection to those resources all across the country. It is, however, up to you to take full advantage of that opportunity….
Speaking of expanding your network, NACE has successfully expanded it’s membership this year. And, one of those successes was the addition of Beaufort County, South Carolina. Mr. Bryan Bauer, Director of Engineering for Beaufort County, is our new South Carolina State Director. I asked Bryan if he’d like to
share an update from South Carolina as a part of this article and he took the time to share the following insight into the past year in South Carolina:
“In the recent election, eighteen (18) South Carolina counties had referendums on the ballot for new or continuing one-percent sales taxes. Counties in the state are allowed to institute sales tax up to 3% in addition to the 6% charged by the State. These sales taxes are a major funding source for transportation projects. Thirteen (13) counties referendums passed. Of the referendums on the ballot, nine (9) Counties had transportation or capital projects sales taxes dedicated solely to transportation projects. Of the nine, four (4) passed totaling nearly $11.5 billion with time frames of 7-years, 15-years, or 25-years. Several taxes had funding included to be the local match on larger projects. In the aftermath of the failed referendums, much of the burden will be placed on the State Infrastructure Bank (SIB). Nine (9) of eighteen (18) active projects being funded by the State Infrastructure Bank (SIB), many on the interstate system, have cost over runs approaching $500 million due to inflationary increases. Other funding sources for transportation in South Carolina include vehicle registration fees (which vary by County) and C-funds which are the County apportionment of the State gas tax (approximately 3-cents of the state’s 28-cent gas tax goes to Counties) and funds the County Transportation Committees (CTC). The committees are mandated by state legislation and overseen by the SCDOT. Annually, the CTCs resurface significant mileage of secondary and local roads, in addition to other infrastructure improvement projects. South Carolina avoided the worst impacts from hurricane season but was impacted by Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene. Disaster was declared and individual assistance available to residents in twenty-nine (29) counties and reservations. Cleanup began after the storm in sixteen (16) Counties by SCDOT and local forces. Over nine hundred (900) roads and bridges were closed at one point and ten (10) bridges need to be replaced due to damage incurred.” – Bryan Bauer
If you’re interested in additional information regarding any of these issues in South Carolina, please let us know and we’ll get you in touch with Bryan.
Pam Dingman (Lancaster County Nebraska Engineer and Secretary/Treasurer of NACE) and I, recently had the opportunity to join a large group of rural road safety advocates at a Forum on Safer Rural Roads hosted by the National Center for Rural Road Safety. It was an excellent experience for us and I asked Jaime Sullivan, Director of the National Center for Rural Road Safety, if she would like to summarize the meeting as a part of this article:
“In September 2023, the National Center for Rural Road Safety (Center) held its fourth National Summit on Rural Road Safety, a large-scale conference that shared needed rural safety knowledge and resources on a wide range of topics. To build on that success, the Center team looked to design a follow-up event that would explore a more focused topic in a more intimate setting, one where participants could directly share their experiences and lessons learned. The Forum on Safer Rural Roads was the result of that effort, a first-of-its-kind event bringing together a targeted range of participants representing diverse voices from across the safety community for a "deep dive" into a specific topic – in this case, the Safe System Approach (SSA).
The purpose of the Forum on Safer Rural Roads, held December 4-5 in Bozeman, Montana, was to discuss how to grow new patterns of thought and behavior, explore what a Safe System Approach looks like on rural roads, and create actionable and implementable strategies/goals to share with all rural road practitioners and stakeholders.
The outcomes we hoped for were that:
• Participants are inspired, motivated, and empowered to influence people about applying the Safe System Approach in rural settings
• The Center and our federal partners would have a clearer vision and understanding of SSA in rural settings, what conversations are not happening, and how we can help
• The Center identified resources we can create to more directly impact the ability of practitioners to make rural roads safer and drive fatalities to zero. (e.g., educating practitioners on cross-cutting challenges across rural road networks through the five SSA elements, and fostering collaboration between safety practitioners on SSA-based solutions and practices.)
Based on the evaluations from the Forum, I am confident that we have been able to reach all of the above listed outcomes.” – Jaime Sullivan
Thank you, Jaime, for the invitation to participate and for the very unique and rewarding forum that you put together. Pam and I hope that we provided valuable input on behalf of County Engineers and Highway Officials.
These are just a few examples of the partners we have at NACE. If you’re not taking advantage of the opportunities NACE presents to expand your network, make that your New Year’s resolution. In parting, I hope everyone has a safe and Merry Christmas. I so very much appreciate your time and support of the NACE Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and staff. "Have yourself a merry little Christmas. Let your heart be light. From now on, your troubles will be out of sight." – Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane, "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"
Monthly Officer Update | November 2024
Stephen McCall, PE., PS. NACE President
It’s that time of year! Elections are over and plans for the New Year are underway, with 13 new County Engineers out of 88 in Ohio. While many of our state’s changes resulted from retirements, a few involved contested races for the honor of serving the public. As an elected County Engineer, I understand the effort it takes to secure this role and the significant responsibilities it entails.
County Engineers in Ohio serve four-year terms and must hold dual licenses as a Professional Engineer (P.E.) and Professional Surveyor (P.S.). Residency in the county we serve is also required. This elected position grants the autonomy to make decisions based on engineering expertise, workforce needs, and budget priorities—free from external political influence.
Our budget, funded by gas taxes and license plate fees, is dedicated to county projects. While some counties benefit from additional revenue through sales taxes or levies, my county relies solely on these dedicated funds. I collaborate with commissioners to manage resources effectively, but key decisions about equipment, construction methods, and policies ultimately rest with me. This ensures that engineering and safety remain the top priorities. One challenge of being elected is that compensation is fixed for the four-year term, limiting flexibility in a changing economy. In contrast, appointed positions often provide opportunities for salary negotiations and greater job security through contracts, though they may come with less decision-making authority.
As we move into the New Year, I’m committed to working closely with commissioners, staff, and residents to help our county thrive. Whether elected or appointed, what truly matters is the dedication and expertise we bring to the role, always striving to enhance our communities.
A special thank you to Texas and California for their hospitality during my recent visits. Both states are excelling with strong associations and outstanding conferences. Texas impressed with their domino tournament and musical events, while California stood out with the Clods' famous barbecue. These unique activities complemented the technical sessions, policy discussions, and networking opportunities. Here’s to continued success for all professional conferences in the year ahead!
Monthly Officer Update | October 2024
Wayne Sanberg PE, NACE VP North Central
Strategic Planning is a process that serves as a framework to guide the vision, mission, priorities and actions of NACE, and helps ensure that we can meet the evolving needs of our membership.
In late September, the NACE Board of Directors held a two-day Strategic Planning workshop focusing on the future of NACE. Over 220 of you responded to the membership survey that was sent out in August of this year, and the results of that survey were used as a foundation for this strategic planning work. From that survey, we learned that NACE members find value in the advocacy that NACE provides on policy issues, that members appreciate the educational opportunities that NACE provides and want to see NACE grow and expand as an organization. Additionally, you want to make sure that NACE is a welcoming and inclusive organization, with wide ranging support for all local road officials.
Using these results and over the course of the two days, we focused on developing a new Vision and Mission for NACE, as well as setting priorities for the organization.
Vision:
A robust, reliable, and safe transportation network for all
Mission:
To improve the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of local infrastructure through advocacy, collaboration, and education of road officials.
Priorities:
1) Advocacy
2) Member Growth and Engagement
3) Education
This two day planning session is only the beginning. In the coming months, we will formally adopt the new NACE Mission and Vision, along with our updated priorities, and associated action plans. These plans will be shared with the membership culminating at the Annual Meeting in April. As we move forward, we encourage all members to actively participate in the strategic planning process. Many of you will be asked to help with implementation. Your insights and expertise are invaluable as we strive to build a stronger future for NACE!
By embracing strategic planning, NACE positions itself not only as a leader in the field of local transportation, but also as a proactive advocate for the infrastructure and services that support our communities.
Monthly Officer Update | September 2024
Stephen McCall, PE., PS. NACE President
At the end of August, I was able to speak at the Association of County Engineers of Alabama Conference, where the hospitality is only equaled by their commitment to local infrastructure improvement. They are dealing with similar issues as many others across the country, such as trying to find CDL drivers and employees and keep them before they jump ship to go after more money. They also face the daunting reality of dealing with the inflation of material cost and contracts. Additionally, they continue their efforts to work with FEMA and FHWA on projects and emergency repairs. As we all know, these are the best of times and the worst of times. Just like in Ohio, if you wait a day or even an afternoon, the situation changes and the clouds are going to come in or the sun will come out. As we persevere through the difficult times, we are making good connections with those in our fields to help us the next time we experience a problem or help our colleagues as they face some adversity. NACE is continuing to serve in many different capacities.
The new list of SS4A grant awards have been posted and I congratulate all who were successful. Now, we are working to make the agreements more streamlined and easier to complete with the templates that we have requested. FHWA has had some turnover and are also increasing staff to reduce delays. As we are working with the agreements, remember that they also are facing challenges and uncharted waters. Having patience and humility will allow a better relationship with the agency you are working with, and you will get better results with persistent and polite follow-ups. USDOT expects to make additional FY24 award announcements in November.
The NACE Conference Committee and committee chairs have been working to get the program out for the 2025 Annual Conference in Cook County, Illinois earlier than in years past. IACE has been doing an outstanding job getting ready for everyone to visit. Many changes have been planned for this conference and information will be sent out later this fall with all the details.
Thanks to those of you who completed our strategic planning survey. I know there were a lot of questions, but we wanted to make sure the membership had an opportunity to give input in the direction and future of NACE. Information from our planning meeting and the survey results will be shared in future NACE News articles. Everyone has had an opportunity to give their input and we appreciate your time. If we can answer any questions or concerns with this or any other issue, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Monthly Officer Update | August 2024
Rich Sanders, NACo Representative
From the frying pan into the fire… or was it into a sauna? The NACE Executive Committee met at the NACo Annual Conference in Tampa FL where the high temperatures were around 95 with 100% humidity each day. We could count on the 2pm thunderstorm everyday catching up with our NACE friends each evening. If you haven’t been to Tampa and its Ybor City neighborhood, it is worth the trip.
The NACo Transportation Steering Committee, which many NACE members are members of, approved 1 platform change and 12 resolutions that will be available on their website soon.
NACE Executive Director Kevan Stone gave a presentation on IIJA and future transportation funding. How we need to get in front of Congress as there are others that don’t want to see funding go to local agencies and stay with the States. With a new re-authorization here before you know it, we must now begin to educate our representatives in Washington on the importance of steady and adequate infrastructure funding.
James Gore (Sanoma County CA Commissioner) is the new President of NACo. JD Clark (Wise County TX Judge)is the new First Vice President and is the newly elected Second Vice President is Commissioner George Dunlap of Mecklenburg County, N.C. They all will be great advocates of ours. The Honorable Eileen Higgins (Commissioner, Miami-Dade County, FL) was again appointed the Transportation Policy Steering Committee Chair. I will again be a Vice Chair on the Committee. Other Members will be listed on the NACo Website soon.
Mr. Gore is also interested in seeing the Stafford Act and FEMA’s process changed to benefit counties. We will be working with him and others in the upcoming year to see how we can make this happen.
If you run into any issues that you feel rise to the level of a national concern, please contact Kevan, Luke McGinty or Wayne Sandberg to get it in front of NACE. Contact Jessica Jennings (NACo) or myself and we will make sure to get it in front of the NACo Transportation Steering Committee for their consideration. The next NACo conference is its annual legislative conference in Washington, D.C. March 1-4. NACE holds its annual legislative fly-in the week before, and I encourage you to participate in this highly productive event in the future.
A Letter from the President
Stephen McCall, PE, PS , NACE President | July 2024
On July 9, 2024, the NACE Board of Directors voted to increase dues starting in 2025. The presentation of the financials was given in the fall of 2023, and it was obvious that adjustments would need to be made to continue providing value and results for the NACE membership. Inflation over the last two years is the main reason for the anticipated shortfalls, as they have affected our conference profit immensely, with a 40% increase in NACE conference costs. Past President Blue established a financial committee to review and bring several options to the April Annual Conference in Palm Springs. The committee brought information showing that without any adjustments, the cash balance in 2024 would be a deficit of over $32,000 and over $120,000 in 2025.
The board, after a lengthy discussion, encouraged the financial committee to review what would be necessary for an increase significant enough to be able to serve the membership at the current level, start to build reserves to help keep the conference cost lower, and plan for small annual increases to withstand future inflation. After the committee's work this spring, they proposed increasing from $275 per vote to $485 per vote for 2025 and 2026 and then having an increase starting in 2027 of 3% rounded to the nearest $5. With this increase, NACE will be able to continue to achieve its mission for its members rather than what we would have to take away.
Plans are already in motion for strategic planning for this fall. A survey has been sent to our membership and it is vital that we receive the feedback necessary to make good decisions for NACE. With this information, we will be able to prioritize the membership’s needs and also hear what new and exciting opportunities NACE will focus on. To take the survey, click HERE.
Our current mission
To promote the use of recognized engineering standards for the design, construction, and maintenance of public works; To promote the spirit of cooperation between city, county, state, and Federal agencies; And, by the exchange of ideas, to give all counties in each state the advantages of qualified professional engineering services in all phases of public works.
We achieve our mission through:
Advocacy:
Advocate for innovative solutions to county infrastructure challenges by building strong relationships with the United States Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, Federal Emergency Management Agency, the White House, and local county government.
Engagement:
Build cooperative relationships between city, county, and state agencies to advance the work of county engineers.
Idea Exchange:
Create opportunities for county engineers and key stakeholders to share knowledge, resources, and information that impact the counties they serve.
Leadership Development:
Grow the next generation of county engineers through education and training to create a pipeline of highly proficient future leaders.
Don't forget to explore the new website and sign up for the membership area. Please confirm your information is correct and update anything that is necessary. A webinar will be planned to show all the bells and whistles of the new system. This will be a valuable communication hub for the membership and will start to develop as a repository of information for NACE. Please email nace@countyengineers.org if you have any questions.
Thank you again for all your work serving the public. Because of your involvement in NACE, you are able to make your communities a better place to live.
Stephen McCall P.E., P.S.
Champaign County Engineer
2024 NACE President
Monthly Officer Update | July 2024
Pamela Dingman, Treasurer/Secretary, PE
Sometimes being a county engineer feels more like being an unhappy farmer. We all have experienced too much rain or not enough rain. It seems strange that we bounce between extreme drought and flooding. Nebraska broke the previous record for most confirmed tornadoes in a year this May, when we reached a staggering 66 breaking the previous record of 40. The tornado that grazed the north side of Lincoln, collapsed a major manufacturing facility with more than 70 workers inside and later damaged 100’s of homes in west Omaha. Many of these storms were accompanied by extreme rain and hail.
In my 10-year tenure as county engineer I have experienced many 100-year storm events, tornados and even a wildfire. I was recently asked by a group of citizens if I was prepared for future emergency events. It is not an easy question because none of us knows what the future is going to bring. What I do know is that I can depend on my NACE contacts to offer advice and encouragement based on their experience. It is helpful to know that we are not alone in battling challenging weather conditions.
Today more than any other point in history, we need to have a plan to build and maintain infrastructure that will make our counties more resilient in the future. In order to accomplish that goal we need to continue to work together to advocate not only for each other but also for additional funding to continue to build new more resilient infrastructure. I am proud to be part of the NACE Executive Committee and look forward to meeting the challenges of the future.