A Role in Regional Leadership

Area residents who are tired of pure parochial politics and hungry for regional leadership have long bemoaned the low public profile of the Southern California Assn. of Governments. SCAG, with a $28-million annual budget from state and federal sources, ought to have a major role in regional planning and building consensus on an array of issues confronting Los Angeles, Ventura, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Imperial counties.

Those issues include transportation, airport expansion, air quality and housing. SCAG also moves state and federal planning monies to local governments.

Yet while it has functioned for years as a kind of statistical guru, it has failed to become a strong voice for regional leadership. Now a detailed accounting of its shenanigans with taxpayer dollars, though it could erode the remaining credibility of SCAG’s current leadership, is also an opportunity for the agency to start fresh and make more of itself.

An audit ordered by SCAG’s governing board has found widespread financial, accounting and contracting problems. Contracts were awarded without competitive bidding and in some cases went to relatives, friends or associates of SCAG board members or former members. Catchy witticisms abound, as in SCAG, the Spousal Contract Award Group.

SCAG’s leadership must be called into question. It’s not good enough to hear Executive Director Mark Pisano say that the audit is “a road map that will help us . . .” without his taking some responsibility.

SCAG lacks the clout of other regional groups. Its only political authority comes from its voice and the integrity of its operations.

SCAG’s woes are deep. However, if they prompt credible reform, the agency could gain a voice and motivate the beginning of true regional leadership.