Garret County Commissioners have approved a plan to create a 9 member Efficiency Task Force that will identify problems and solutions in county government to save money, create efficiencies, and improve productivity.  Of the 9 members, five will be from county government and 4 will be appointed by the commissioners.  They are also considering subcommittees to provide for greater participation from employees and residents.

As reported in the Cumberland-Times News:

According to Gregan Crawford, chairman, this concept has been successful in the private sector for many years. He believes the implementation of the concept in Garrett County governmental operations will offer a better return on taxpayers’ dollars.

“This was the next logical step. We have looked at and completed many cost-saving initiatives and we believe this can only help our efforts,” Crawford added.The county has already enjoyed the results of lean practices following the elimination of 25 positions through attrition.

Through attrition, the county has seen a savings of $1.5 million and has been able to restructure and reorganize many departments, eliminating many cases of duplication of services.