NEW JERSEY GOVERNMENT EFFICIENCY AND REFORM
COMMISSION ISSUES FIRST REPORT

TRENTON

- The New Jersey Commission on Government Efficiency and Reform, which Governor Jon S. Corzine created earlier this year to evaluate the budget, structure and organization of government in New Jersey, released its first progress report, which includes recommendations to overhaul the Office of Information Technology (OIT).
The 13-member panel, which is headed by Richard C. Leone, formed task forces to look at higher education, budget controls and personnel reform. The report provides the commission’s first set of recommendations.

“If we are to reduce the cost of government, then we must ensure that it operates in the most efficient manner possible,� Governor Corzine said. “This first report offers a good list of realistic recommendations that create the framework for a leaner, more effective state government.�

The report states that OIT “requires a new mandate, mission and structure,� and offered recommendations to improve services and reduce costs, including designating a Chief Information Officer (CIO) responsible for the implementation of a strategic technology plan, providing oversight and direction to the OIT, and ensuring services are delivered and costs are controlled.

The commission also recommended that a new operating structure for OIT be established and all infrastructure issues be handled by OIT to reduce operating costs. While agencies would retain some day to day functions, several Deputy CIO positions would be established to oversee strategic planning and budgeting for groups of related agencies. The panel also found critical state operating and control systems, especially those related to personnel and payroll, are extremely antiquated and recommended they be upgraded or replaced as soon as possible.

In the coming months, the panel will develop recommendations on an overall management agenda for New Jersey; proposals for improved budget controls; an examination of the state’s procurement practices; a review of the state’s spending related to health care, including Medicaid, charity care and the costs of employee and retiree benefits; and an analysis of the programs and operations of the Department of Corrections.

Governor Corzine signed an April 7 Execution Order creating the commission. Leone, formerly Governor Corzine’s transition chairman, currently heads the Century Foundation. To access the report, visit www.state.nj.us/governor/.

###