Opportunities in Changing Federal System

As the New Federalism decentralizes the domestic program system by restructuring the delivery of federal program monies, we are challenged to an innovative approach to the administration of public funds and programs. The integrated grant administration (IGA) goal is maximum use of available resources through an integrated and coordinated work program and improved cash flow to the local level. It establishes communication and coordination between federal, state, and local agencies through a Federal Regional Council composed of representatives of participating federal agencies under one federal lead agency. The Federal Regional Council approves and reviews for effectiveness a single multi-functional grant application. Lane Council of Governments (a pilot IGA agency) is a regional planning agency composed of elected officials representing local governments. It provides communication and coordination between many diverse service delivery agencies, elimination of duplication, and local control over regional public services.