July 24, 2006

Columbus, Ohio – Calling a results-focused state government a top priority, gubernatorial candidate Congressman Ted Strickland announced his plan today to make sure that Ohio lives within its means while achieving the goals of his Turnaround Ohio plan: Keeping the jobs we have by investing in Ohio’s strengths while bringing the jobs of the future by making sure we have the best educated workforce possible.

“My government accountability plan will emphasize results, so that every day, every agency in our administration will be working toward the goals of keeping and growing jobs in Ohio,” Strickland said. “A lean state government should be inspired by the private sector and be its ally, not erect hurdles to competitiveness and growth.”

Building on successful programs in other states like those instituted by Governor Tom Vilsack in Iowa, The Turnaround Ohio Government Accountability Plan streamlines government operations to achieve added efficiency and focuses on results.

• Set goals and concentrate funding on the core priorities Ohioans expect—a quality education system tied to quality job creation.
  
• Institute Advantage Ohio, an across-the-board review of our regulations and permitting processes, leading to the elimination of redundancies and needless delays that cost Ohio businesses’ time and money.
  
• Sign a performance contract with every state department to set priorities and fund results.
  
• Budget for results and demand measurable outcomes that respond to the needs and meet the expectations of the Ohioans we serve.
  
• Put in place a hands-on management team that knows how to manage and can inspire employees at every level.
  
• Establish a Priority Investment Fund to concentrate all savings, budget growth and under-utilized funds on addressing the core priorities of Turnaround Ohio.
  
• Create a State Results Scorecard that provides complete information on how taxpayer dollars are spent and evaluates results.

To view the full proposal, visit www.tedstrickland.com/vision