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For Release: Immediate
Date: June 19, 2002 |
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Cari Boyce/Fred Hartman Phone:(919) 733-5612
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For Release: Immediate
Date: June 19, 2002 |
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Cari Boyce/Fred Hartman Phone:(919) 733-5612
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EASLEY ANNOUNCES COST SAVING MEASURE
Creates Transition Team to Merge DMV Enforcement with Crime Control and Public Safety
Raleigh - Gov. Mike Easley today announced the creation of a transition team to oversee the merger of the Department of Transportation's Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Enforcement Section with the Department of Crime Control and Public Safety (CCPS). This consolidation will result in annual savings of at least $4 million and a more streamlined, efficient coverage of the enforcement functions on the state's highways.
"After talking with Secretary Tippett, Secretary Beatty and our budget experts, it is clear that the consolidation of DMV's enforcement section with the Department makes practical and financial sense," said Easley. "By housing the two law enforcement agencies responsible for our highways in one agency, we can reduce and improve the command structure. The bottom line is more professional and efficient regulation of our state's roads and safer highways."
The current measure also has been recommended by Easley's Commission to Promote Government Efficiency and Savings and by the DMV Review Council. Legislation effecting the change will be included in the efficiency recommendations put forth by the commission.
"This plan is consistent with our commission recommendations," said Jim Hyler, Chair of the Governor's Commission to Promote Government Efficiency and Savings on State Spending. "I applaud Governor Easley for taking the necessary steps to move this proposal forward."
The NCDOT has taken numerous steps to improve DMV Enforcement including expanded field office audits, mandatory ethics training and random reviews of Enforcement operations. In April, Secretary Tippett formed a council to review all DMV Enforcement operations across the state. The Council included: Bryan Beatty, Andy Vanore, retired from the Attorney General's Office and Carol Howard, DMV Commissioner. In May, the Council announced leadership changes at DMV, appointing a new Acting Colonel and Acting Lieutenant Colonel. In addition, several personnel changes have been made in the western part of the state.
"Secretary Tippett and Secretary Beatty made these recommendations after thorough consideration," said Easley. "The legislature and I have a high respect for their opinions."
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