Taking another page out of the Michael Bloomberg school of government, presumptive D.C. mayor Adrian Fenty will establish the nerve center of his executive operation much like the New York City mayor’s City Hall “bullpen.”
The bullpen is a large room lined with open cubicles, each occupied by a top city manager — including Bloomberg. Bloomberg, of course, has a ceremonial office for private get-togethers, but in the bullpen his assistants, deputy mayors and chiefs of staff surround him.
Fenty has committed to a similar set up in Washington, describing “old D.C.” as an inefficient, closed-door, big bureaucracy.
“It’s a simple concept, but I think people work hard,” Fenty said Monday after touring the bullpen. “They feel closer to the mayor.”
Dennis Walcott, New York’s Deputy Mayor for education, said the bullpen “breaks down boundaries” and “builds team spirit.”
“We are very honest with our boss,” Wolcatt said. “Our boss is very honest with us. You can’t hide behind closed doors.”
