BY KEN WINGATE
The largest government restructuring effort in decades is under way in South Carolina. Modeled after President Reagan's Grace Commission, Gov. Mark Sanford's Commission on Management, Accountability and Performance (or MAP Commission) was formed June 17. Fourteen commissioners and over 250 task force members from the private sector, state government and the General Assembly are probing the way South Carolina does business.
Gov. Sanford's executive order charges the MAP Commission with analyzing government systems and services in South Carolina in an effort to reduce costs, increase accountability, improve service, consolidate similar functions and return jobs to the private sector.
The goal is to make South Carolina more competitive in a world economy and to increase customer satisfaction.
Government functions like information technology, human resources, transportation, procurement and facilities are being examined. Organizational structure, both in alignment between the agencies and within the agencies, is being re-evaluated. This bipartisan commission is asking tough questions and will make some tough suggestions.
We all have a vested interest in improving the way South Carolina does business. Major constituencies include state employees -- the front-line workers who perform the services of state government; the general public -- the "customers" whose satisfaction with the efficiency and effectiveness of state services must be the ultimate measure of success; and state leaders -- whose willingness and ability in tough times to make tough decisions will be tested. Can our political leaders embrace change? The answer in part depends on whether the people will use their voice to cry out for change
Two specific sets of voices must be heard. The MAP Commission wants input from state employees and from citizens at large, suggesting ways to improve state government. We have already conducted focus groups with state employees and private citizens. We have conducted a scientific public opinion poll, the results of which will be released with our final report Sept. 30. But we also have other ways for the voices to be heard.
First, all citizens and employees are asked to complete a survey at the commission's Web site (http://www.mapcommission.sc.gov/).
Second, the MAP Commission is conducting public hearings around the state this month.
The commission will hold a hearing in from 5-7 tonight at the Trident Technical College Student Center, Building 410. This format offers any person an opportunity to voice concerns or make suggestions to Gov. Sanford and members of the MAP Commission.
You can either address the commission for up to two minutes or you may submit written comments.
We want to listen to your voice. Please respond to the online survey or attend one of the public hearings, and tell us what you think.
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