Which Department Has The Most City Issued Cell Phones In LA?
City Controller Greuel, in an effort to save taxpayer money, has called for a 60% reduction in the number of City issued cell phones by July 1st, 2011. The Controller believes this action could save Los Angeles nearly $5 million annually that can be better spent. A final audit will be released in the coming weeks that examines overall City cell phone usage and existing contracts.
Leading by example, Greuel decided to turn in her own City issued cell phone and will use her personal cell for all City related business. She hopes the Council, Mayor, City Attorney and other City leaders will do the same.
According to Greuel's audit, there are currently 11,812 cell phones issued Citywide. “When we’re closing libraries and leaving potholes unfilled, it defies comprehension that nearly 12,000 City employees need cell phones," said Controller Greuel in a press release, adding, “With the City facing a $350 million budget deficit, only those employees considered essential - such as Emergency Management and first responders - should be receiving this perk."
In addition to evaluating department criteria for assigning cell phones, the audit also investigates how effectively departments are monitoring and managing usage to ensure the City is not paying for personal calls.
The departments with the most City issued cell phones are:
Department of Water and Power - 3,971
Los Angeles Police Department - 1,525
Los Angeles World Airports - 872
Los Angeles Fire Department - 798
General Services Department - 580
Department of Building and Safety - 494