BRA in Need of Major Change After Audit Reveals Several Problems

An independent operational review of the Boston Redevelopment Authority, commissioned by the City, identified several key areas in need of drastic improvement. Major areas in need of change include, management, planning and development.

The months-long review, conducted by McKinsey & Company, calls for the “elevation and restructuring of the agency’s real estate management department in order to optimize BRA-owned assets and generate new revenue from those holdings.”

The BRA’s planning division was the initial focus of the review. The audit’s findings indicate a need to add more staff to support the City’s proactive planning initiatives that are currently underway.

“As director, nothing is more valuable to me than an honest assessment of our shortcomings and strengths because it allows us to take a thoughtful approach as we implement reforms,” said Brian Golden in a statement on Thursday.

The review found that the BRA does less dynamic planning than many other major cities, including San Francisco, Philadelphia, Seattle and Vancouver.

Additionally, the “BRA’s design review process varies greatly in the length of time and number of meetings necessary to approve projects,” the audit said.

Also noted in the review, the BRA needs to implement a more forward-thinking budget strategy within its administration and finance departments.

A review of the BRA’s finance department determined “several gaps between the BRA’s financial processes and capabilities and what is typically expected from a finance department.” The findings indicate a lack of “departmental budgets and insufficient annual strategic planning and budgeting.” As a result of the review, the BRA’s asset management division will also be restructured.

“We have embraced the challenge that comes with improving the way we do business, and this latest review provides the information we need to create a robust and positive plan for the future of the BRA. Change is already underway, and we are intent on delivering upon the rest of the action plan. This work will take time, but in the end I’m confident that it will lead to results for which we can all be proud,” Golden said.

The BRA has started to sponsor more professional development opportunities, started an employee wellness program, launched a performance review system for staff, and more, in an effort to improve morale among workers who felt the agency lacked a “clear vision.”

Photo Credit: BRA