Re: “After 10 years and $31M, WA workers’ comp upgrade has little to show” (April 14, Business):
The Department of Labor and Industries has spent $31 million to modernize technology and after 10 years has yet to produce a result or benefit. And it wants more money with no end in sight. The Office of Financial Management was unable to complete a $144 million project by 2022 and it “may” be completed by 2027 at double the cost, $288 million. The University of Washington had a project that was a year late and $71 million over budget.
Why are those responsible for completion of these projects still employed, including the heads and management of these agencies? Why are the same consultants still utilized? There are apparently 70 remaining projects involving 33 agencies with an “estimated cost” of $2.5 billion. It will cost far more.
This is irresponsible but, after all, it is only the taxpayers’ money. Those who must earn the money they spend think and act differently than those who are given the money. Apparently, there is no accountability for those in government. It is long past time for a change.
Gary Lofland, Yakima
