As the Hogan Administrator assumes control of the State House in Annapolis on Wednesday, I commend one of its recent appointees, Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio, former delegate representing the District 37B on Mid Shore and former candidate for lieutenant governor, as director of intergovernmental affairs.
I worked with then-Delegate Haddaway-Riccio, a Talbot County native, when I served as a deputy treasurer with primary responsibility as the Treasurer’s liaison to the powerful Board of Public Works. We often communicated about issues important to her district.
I also worked with Del. Haddaway-Riccio on two local issues, one involving a contractor dealing with difficult regulations imposed by a state agency, and the other involving a mutual friend trying to regain his certification as a policeman.
What I found is that Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio is sincere about her interest and conscientious in her follow-up. In the matter involving our mutual friend, she as a state delegate provided superb constituent service.
Along with another Talbot County resident, a retired attorney, the three of us testified before a state board on behalf of our friend, spending several hours traveling to and from Carroll County and attending the hearing. I was hugely impressed by Jeannie’s intention to do whatever she could on behalf of our friend. Fortunately, we were successful, due in no small measure to Delegate Haddaway-Riccio’s participation in the hearing.
Now Jeannie begins a new career in the executive branch of state government. She will be working closely with local and county governments, as well as many community groups keen on pressing their causes and concerns to Gov. Hogan.
Jeannie will be very successful. She listens well. She does her homework. She relates easily and comfortably with people whom she serves. And she is well-regarded in the Maryland General Assembly.
A jump from the legislative to the executive branch of government requires some adjustment. No longer do you contribute to policy-and-law making on issues large and small. On the other hand, you have a wide view of state government, and a constituency that extends from Oakland in Garrett County to Crisfield in Somerset County.
Local and county governments constantly look to Annapolis for fiscal support. They seek to gain a governor’s attention on issues critical to towns, cities and counties. Community and civic groups also compete for attention and money.
Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio is an ideal choice to serve as the governor’s liaison to Maryland’s many governmental bodies and community organizations. She grasps the complexity of state government. She understands the need for knowledgeable and effective outreach.
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Marguerite Whilden says
Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio is indeed an excellent choice to lead the Governor’s Intergovernmental Affairs Office. In my experience with Jeannie on a technical matter she responded promptly and with exacting detail. On another occasion, and at the most hectic and critical point in the legislative session, Jeannie accepted an invitation to our community pot luck supper. What better preparation could one have for this job?
Congratulations to the Honorable Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio and Governor Hogan.