Seattle City Council forms Committee on Open Government
In last year's performance audit entitled "Open Public Records Practices at 30 Government Entities," the Washington State Auditor objected to the City of Seattle's practice (modeled after the State) of treating each department of City government as a separate entity. These departments include such large and diverse operations as Seattle City Light, Seattle Municipal Court, the Department of Transportation, Seattle Police, Seattle Fire and the Department of Public Utilities (e.g. water and sewer). The City changed that practice after the audit report. It is now going an extra step to look at incorporating the "best practices" that the Auditor highlighted in its report. Starting Friday, February 27, the Special Committee for Open Government will hold a series of hearings and taking public comment on how the City can enhance its practices. Bravo Seattle.
UPDATE: Here is the press release, with addional details.
