Changes in store for the DNR. Governor Scott Walker has designated the Department of Natural Resources as the state’s first Enterprise Agency. DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp gives assurances that environmental standards will be maintained. “The best assurance is that we’re going to be fixing broken processes and eliminating redundancies in our paperwork and submittals and report reviewing, making sure that we can free up staff so that they can get out into the field so that they can oversee those sensitive projects,” said Stepp.
But Madison Democrat, state Representative Brett Hulsey, is already voicing concerns. “Governor Walker’s, and the Republicans record of protecting our environment has been dismal,” said Hulsey. According to Stepp’s office, the agency will be given increased operating flexibility, to improve customer service and business support while enhancing its natural resources mission. It’s a pilot program in the 2011-2013 biennium.