3/16/2010
Idaho Transportation Department Director outlines vision to be best in the country
BOISE - Making sure the Idaho Transportation Department is accountable and transparent in using taxpayers' dollars and is providing extraordinary customer service through its employees are among the initiatives launched today by Director Brian W. Ness.
"My vision for the department is this - to become the best transportation department in the country," Ness said. "Achieving this vision will promote responsible government, enhance economic opportunity and empower Idahoans to be our partners. We realize we are entrusted with the people's hard-earned money and must be good stewards."
Ness became director of the Transportation Department in January, bringing 30 years of experience in transportation with him.
Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter agreed with the direction set by Ness.
"In these critical times, it is the responsibility of each state agency to re-evaluate processes and priorities," Governor Otter said. "Director Ness shared his vision with me, and I believe it reflects the accountability, transparency and fiscal responsibility Idahoans expect of their government."
The seven initiatives or vision statements will guide the department in providing transportation services.
- ITD strives to continually get better, with the goal of being the best transportation department in the country.
- ITD is transparent, accountable and delivers on its promises.
- ITD seeks to be more effective and to save costs through increased efficiencies.
- ITD provides extraordinary customer service.
- ITD uses partnerships effectively.
- ITD values teamwork and uses it as a tool to improve.
- ITD places a high value on its employees and their development.
Important steps to accomplish these initiatives already have been taken, including implementation of the Legislative audit, development of performance measures and creation of employee teams. Ness pledged the department would build on these efforts and take additional steps.
"This vision is shared and supported by the transportation board," Idaho Transportation Board Chairman Darrell Manning said. "They will be the driving force behind all of our goals and performance measures."
- - - - -
Media note (not for dissemination):
Video/audio: Video and audio clips of ITD Director Brian Ness are available for downloading from the Idaho Transportation Department's FTP site: ftp://ftp1.idaho.gov
Log on with the user name itdcommu and use the password W39gy7D2
Radio: Audio clips will be e-mailed directly to radio stations for on-air use.