Category Archives: State Government

McDonnell Trial Reviewed

Posted on October 30, 2014 by matt ohern

In closing statements of former Governor Bob McDonnell’s August trial, lead prosecutor Michael Dry made a remarkable statement. McDonnell had flat-out denied key testimony of star witness Jonnie R. Williams, a suspected con man under federal investigation who had agreed … Continue reading →

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Taking the Bogey Out of Government-Run Golf

Posted on February 13, 2014 by matt ohern

How many golf courses does the Commonwealth of Virginia own? No, that is not a ‘how many people does it take to screw in a light bulb’ question. Owning and operating golf courses is not a core government function. It … Continue reading →

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Fostering Regional Collaboration Case by Case

Posted on March 7, 2013 by matt ohern

For reasons rooted in local identity and entrenched political interest, Virginians are unlikely to consolidate their local governments into units aligned with the metropolitan regions they serve. But it is not impossible to imagine governments partnering regionally on specific projects. … Continue reading →

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State Retirement System: Investments Solid for Now

Posted on February 6, 2013 by matt ohern

In the waning months of service as one of nine Virginia Retirement System trustees, I find myself in simpatico with Rod Smyth, Chairman of the VRS Investment Advisory Committee, and Chief Investment Strategist for Riverfront Investment Group. Smyth describes VRS … Continue reading →

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Virginia Public Employees Fare Better than Private Employees

Posted on September 21, 2012 by matt ohern

Virginia has largely, although not completely, avoided the trap of public-sector compensation that in many states far exceeds that in the private sector—a contributing factor in excessive spending in those states and at the national level. A recent analysis for … Continue reading →

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