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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Spin Control

Make agencies accountable

State residents "don't want to drive across town to brick-and-mortar government offices," Gov. Chris Gregoire says. She wants more online applications, computer kiosks to apply for permits.

Department of Licensing is closing or modifying 26 offices.

Different state agencies are sharing data, using one scientist to do studies, than share results.

"It's time to peel away the outdated and costly layers of government thaat we once needed but no longer do."

She wants to eliminate 79 boards and commissions, reduce or eliminate a third of the 64 small state agencies.

She also wants to consolidate the state's Growth Management Boards, now three, down to one.

And she wants to close or reduce 10 institutions. She didn't mention any by name, but staff have said one is Pine Lodge Corrections in Medical Lake.



The Spokesman-Review's political team keeps a critical eye on local, state and national politics.