SPSA passes on chance to remake the agency

The Southeastern Public Service Authority has witnessed one crisis after another in recent years. So, if there ever was a time for SPSA to make a radical break from its past, the selection of a new executive director provided it.

The regional waste agency's board of directors, however, missed an opportunity when it unanimously selected Rowland "Bucky" Taylor to replace longtime SPSA chief John Hadfield, who is retiring. Taylor, the Franklin city manager, assumes the top post Aug. 1. For several years, Taylor has sat on the SPSA board as an alternate.

Given SPSA's continuing financial and organizational challenges, the choice is a bit of a letdown. The executive director has huge control over policies and procedures. The agency could desperately use someone with fresh ideas who is not beholden to the status quo and who is willing to continue reforms.

Taylor might provide that, but it's no stretch to think that an outsider might have been more candid, and more forceful, in seeking changes. At least 20 other candidates had applied for the job, both locals and folks from around the country. SPSA serves Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Franklin, Isle of Wight County and Southampton County.

This is not to denigrate Taylor's qualifications. Board members say he's a top-notch manager and has relationships with other city and county officials in the region. "He's a very cordial and friendly person but has a hard edge when he has to make choices," said board member Mike Barrett, who represents Virginia Beach.

Added Chesapeake Councilman Bryan Collins: "I'm giving Mr. Taylor every opportunity to come in and be successful." Chesapeake had previously sued SPSA, seeking to leave the agency early.

SPSA has made some major changes in the past few years, including employee buyouts, a hike in disposal fees, and cuts in operational costs. "It's probably in the best fiscal position in a decade," said Barrett. That status came, though, after critical media attention about the way SPSA operates and spends money.

Still, several challenges remain: The garbage authority faces debts of $240 million, which must be paid off when contracts with the localities expire in 2018; a debate about "flow control" for commercial haulers; and a state government audit.

Taylor may be an effective leader. But by choosing someone who's part of the local culture and mindset rather than someone outside it, the board has invited not change, but more of the same.