Ferguson to Chair Government Accountability, Oversight, and Financial Performance Committee on County Council

As part of its annual reorganization, the Metropolitan King County Council unanimously appointed Councilmember Bob Ferguson to Chair the Council’s Government Accountability, Oversight, and Financial Performance Committee.

“As Chair of the Government Accountability, Oversight, and Financial Performance Committee, I will focus on enhancing trust in government through greater transparency, improved responsiveness, and financial responsibility,” said Ferguson.

The Government Accountability, Oversight, and Financial Performance Committee is the new name for a revamped committee that will take on expanded responsibilities in 2012. Responsible for overseeing efficiency, cost effectiveness, and performance improvement in all branches of county government, the committee is also charged with making policy recommendations that enhance accountability and transparency. Civilian oversight of the Sheriff’s Office, the development of a pre-trial risk assessment tool, public records reform, and improving services to veterans are among the committee’s expanded functions.

“The committee’s goal this year will be to ask ‘how can we do better?’” said Ferguson. “We will look at a range of policy issues that address how King County government can continue to become smarter, more efficient, and provide better service to the people of King County.”