FARMINGTON --As 2007 draws to a close, leadership roles on the Davis County Commission are rotating according to a resolution passed by former commissioners in 2006. Commissioner Louenda Downs, who has served as Vice Chair under Chairman Alan Hansen, will chair the three-person commission for 2008. Commissioner Brett Millburn will serve as vice chairman.

"There are three competent commissioners and to rotate that leadership makes good sense. That way you don't have someone monopolizing a leadership position when everyone is capable," said Commissioner Downs.

In addition to conducting the weekly commission meetings, Downs will have signing authority for bonds and other legal documents.

The rotation plan was instituted by the commissioners in 2006. "Last year, the prior commission felt that every December the commission ought to look at leadership. Oftentimes you'll see ... leadership that stays an awfully long time," she said, explaining their vision was to give other people an opportunity to lead.

Downs said when she as Chairperson is first notified of issues within the County, it will be her responsibility to make sure the other commissioners are notified. She indicated follow-through was also a responsibility of the Chair.

Downs has years of experience in follow- through with many organizations for which she has served including the Council of Governments, as President of Davis School Board, member of DATC (Davis Applied Technology Center) Board, Chair of Davis Hospital Board, member of Davis Behavioral Board, and Chair of Davis County Economic Development Task Force.

"It gives every commissioner an opportunity to serve in that capacity, to take some leadership and then rotate through."

Due to holiday observances, the Davis County Commission has concluded all 2007 meetings. Their next meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 3.