The Legislative Audit Bureau now provides citizens with an opportunity to report fraud, waste, or mismanagement involving state resources. The LAB provides a form or we can call:
1-877-FRAUD-17 or 1-877-372-8317 (toll free)
I agree with Mike McCabe, who says that "Maybe the first phone or Web tip should be about the Legislature."
Locally, at next Tuesday's Common Council organizational meeting I am going to once again bring up the topic of creating a citizen led Budget Committee. Such a committee would be very helpful in identifying possible waste in local government. If you agree, please contact the Council and let us know that you support the creation of such a committee.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
3 comments:
Tony, It is an idea to consider. What kind of committee would it be? Advisory role or have the ability to weigh in with a level of authority? Spokesmen for city sectors or general public?
It's a interesting concept. What purpose and scope do you envision when you say committee?
Here is the description I sent Councilors last year, modified to include a specific statement that this committee would also be the one to recommend compensation for Mayor/Council:
Responsibilities/Duties: The Budget Committee is charged with analyzing continuously the city budget for the purpose making recommendations on how city services can be delivered more efficiently and how the budget process can be improved. The Budget Committee would also make recommendations on compensation for the Mayor and City Council members. The Budget Committee will meet monthly.
Membership: Two (2) members of the Common Council, seven (7) citizen members, and the Director of Finance.
Desirable Qualifications: Citizens seeking to serve on the Budget Committee should ideally have some knowledge of municipal budgeting issues.
____
The Committee as I envision it would be advisory, similar to most other advisory boards/commissions in the city.
I'm curious about how effective they will be considering the territoriality of the city department heads.
I like the idea and think outside perspectives would serve the city well.
Post a Comment