326

REMARKS TO ALL STATE DEPARTMENT HEADS,
STATE OFFICE BUILDING, BALTIMORE

June 27, 1967

I have requested that all of you meet with me today so that I might
officially and clearly emphasize the importance that the Task Force
on Modern Management's efforts will have to the revitalization of the
State administration.

I need not launch upon a prolonged discussion of the existing organi-
zational obstacles that have impaired efficient administrative proce-
dures. It is sufficient to note my own personal frustration at not hav-
ing sufficient time to meet with many of you individually to discuss
the particular problems of your agency, commission, board or depart-
ment — unless those problems reach crisis proportions. While I do
maintain daily contact with my program executives, and in this way
have developed a working familiarity with your operations, I recog-
nize that improved communication and efficiency ultimately depends
upon a reorganization of the State's 240 diversified administrative
units.

Certainly, the majority of you are far more experienced with this
problem than I am; and, undoubtedly, many of you have suggestions
and insights which will contribute toward a satisfactory solution. The
primary purpose of the Task Force on Modern Management is to serve
as that instrument which will collect and correlate your individual
views and insights, so that a meaningful comprehensive reorganization
may be achieved.

So great is my belief in the worth of this work and my confidence
that it can be accomplished, that I shall support the Task Force with
the full authority and influence of the Governor's office.

The purpose of this meeting is to introduce the Task Force person-
nel under the direction of Mr. Lauber to you, and to enable them to
fully explain the mechanics and timing of the Task Force's study —
how the Task Force will work and how your department, agency,
board or commission must work with the Task Force to succeed in this
massive effort.

is no way to overemphasize the importance of your coopera-
tion and participation in this project. However, in recognition that the
administrative demands on your time are so extensive, I am request-
ing that each of you designate a ranking member of your staff to serve