Wright aims to make agency more transparent

In his first month as executive director of the Development Authority of the North Country, James W. Wright made a series of changes to focus the authority organizationally and increase transparency.

Mr. Wright began his official duties April 1. At his first meeting as executive director, he praised the stability and talent in the organization, crediting Robert S. Juravich, the former executive director.

"During these times of economic uncertainty and public skepticism on government efficiency, we want to have more transparency at all levels," he said.

The changes and new ideas include:

■ Changed the Web site so policies, budget information and financial reports are easier to find.

■ Appointed a Northern Tier Expressway working group that incorporates authority staff and board members, to replace a DANC consultant.

■ Reorganized the authority's structure, making all divisions answerable to Deputy Executive Director Thomas R. Sauter and the compliance officer directly responsible to Mr. Wright.

■ Will institute a "green" initiative to find ways for the authority to recycle, reuse and reduce its carbon footprint and develop a viable regional recycling program.

■ Will encourage opportunities to develop public trails on the model of the nature trail along Route 11 in Calcium on buffer property around the solid waste management facility in Rodman.

■ Will develop a loan program for municipalities to begin preliminary design and engineering work on projects, focusing on infrastructure.

■ Will create a multiyear, integrated capital plan instead of having each division present separate plans.

■ Will modify policies with board approval throughout the year, not all at the annual meeting.

■ Will ask the board to purchase financial management software that integrates with the authority's budget software to increase controls.

ON THE NET

Development Authority of the North Country: www.danc.org