COMPTROLLER'S CORNER By Loleta A. Didrickson, Comptroller, State of Illinois

The decision to accept the challenge and run for State Comptroller was made after extensive and exhaustive research into how this office works. A synopsis of that research revealed that there must be better and more efficient ways to carry out the duties of the State Comptroller.

My experiences have taught me that there are no easy fixes. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't try.

The first step is that government has to think differently. We must work smarter. We need to change the way we do business so we can take advantage of technology and upgrade our antiquated systems of operation.

By increasing the number of employees using direct deposit, the State government can save on the rising cost of postage and paper. Direct deposit is a method of paying salary by which State employees can decide to have their paycheck automatically deposited into either their checking or savings account thus also streamlining operation by reducing the flow of paper.

I am making direct deposit a requirement of all my new employees and am asking other State agencies to do the same. It is a convenience for employees because they don't have to physically cash the paycheck. The pay is deposited even if the employee is sick or on vacation. Finally, it eliminates the possibility of loss, theft or forgery.

I am also proud to announce that beginning in June, we will start a commercial deposit program. The two agencies involved in this pilot program will be the State Board of Education and the Department of Commerce and Community Affairs. Over the course of the next four years, I hope to extend this program to include all state agencies.

During the coming months, the Illinois Office of Comptroller will examine other cost-efficient measures to ensure taxpayers that their dollars are spent wisely. •

Page 24 / Illinois Municipal Review / July 1995