Department Efficiency Committee Documents, 1910-1947

In 1911, City Council directed departments to report back regarding ways of reducing costs of operation and maintenance. By 1912 a City Council Committee was formed for ongoing investigation of efficiency in City departments. Initially called the Department Efficiency Committee, the name was changed to the Departmental Efficiency Committee in 1948, and was combined with Personnel in 1948. Its last year in existence was 1967. In addition to assessing efficiencies in departments, the Committee also investigated unlawful practices, especially relating to contracts, unnecessary expenses, and practices contrary to the public good. Committee records include correspondence and reports to and by the committee. Departmental reports to City Council date primarily from 1911 to 1913. Reports from 1917 on all departments in the City by efficiency engineers from the Emerson Company of New York City are also included. In addition, the committee reported on vice and corruption in city government. Transcripts of hearings from 1932 and 1941 are included regarding appointment of the Police Chief and of superintendents for the Water and Streets and Sewers Departments. Correspondence from department heads, the mayor, and others is also part of the series.