State Senator Michael McLachlan Hosts Public Hearing on Improving Government Efficiency

Danbury, CT – State Senator Michael McLachlan (R-Danbury) joined with a number of other legislators and community leaders in hosting a public hearing at Danbury City Hall Thursday evening. The hearing was hosted by the newly-formed Commission on Enhancing Agency Outcomes (CEAO) and sought feedback from area residents on the function of state government.

“There is no denying that the state of Connecticut is facing a crippling budget deficit over the next two fiscal years,” said Senator McLachlan. “And while we in the General Assembly try to navigate our way out of the mess, it’s important we understand how we got here. One of the ways I believe we can begin to untangle ourselves is to examine the inefficiencies and inconsistencies of our state’s bureaucracy. A great way to learn more is by turning to the public for their input and perspective.”

The commission was established this year in an effort to redefine the organization and function of state government. Over the next few months, the commission will be examining certain overlaps and redundancies within state government in an effort to eliminate wasteful spending and increase efficiency. Thursday’s public hearing was part of a series of hearings scheduled throughout the state.

“I was encouraged to see so many turn out for Thursday’s public hearing,” said Senator McLachlan. “There is a tremendous amount of waste in our state government. Now, when we try to trim spending across the board, we have the opportunity to really redefine our government by making it more efficient and transparent. I believe this commission is an important aspect of that process and I am proud to be a part of it.”

The commission will submit a report of its recommendations to the Governor by July 1, 2009. For more on the Commission on Enhancing Agency Outcomes, visit its website at http://www.cga.ct.gov/gae/CEAO/.