Help find savings in Cumberland County budget
Every now and then, we come across a story that includes an unexpected slice of information that opens a door to a larger subject.
One such story ran recently concerning Cumberland Manor.
Manor clerk Teresa Brown offered an insiders look at the Manor and reflected on what the future may hold now that the place is officially up for sale.
Brown spoke of some of the absurdity she sees on a daily basis.
For example, we didnt know that Manor patients requiring dental care have to be transported to Bergen County because no one locally takes Medicaid. Imagine the amazing waste of staff and fuel to shuttle patients back and forth. No wonder the Manor has fiscal problems.
There has to be a better way to provide efficient, quality care, and we are sure some creative soul out there could find a dentist closer to home.
She also spoke of seeing a rack freshly-pressed suits being delivered from Cooks Cleaners to the prosecutors office, which maintains an office on the ground floor at the Manor. They cant even get their own suits cleaned, she exclaimed.
We dont know the particulars of that episode. Is this a regular occurrence? Was this some one-time thing?
Browns anecdotes got us thinking about our countys current financial predicament and drew us to this conclusion: As much as people tell us they have squeezed every nickel and pinched every penny, we imagine there are those out there who could find even more ways the county can save money. Employees working on the front lines see more than most and can offer very helpful ideas.
With that in mind, we invite county workers or anyone who does business with the county to share their ideas for how we can find even more savings in the ongoing effort to close our $10 million budget gap.
In every workplace, be it a government office or a newspaper, the workers know at least a few ways in which money is squandered on a daily basis. These folks often know more than the managers, but dont necessarily feel inclined to share their ideas. Some workplaces simply arent receptive to employee input.
Well, we are very receptive to your suggestions, so drop us an email at mgray@sjnewsco.com or call 451-1000, ext. 459. You dont even have to leave your name if you fear for your job. Just give us enough detail so that we can investigate your suggestion. What would be even better is if you would include your ideas for how to resolve the wasteful practice you describe.
This isnt about making anyone look bad its about fixing our countys finances. Thats more important than egos, personal fiefdoms or political parties.
Lets get to work.