Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy has formed a team to study whether a merger of the Human Services and Community Services departments would result in cost savings, increased efficiencies or more effective programs.

The team, led by Deputy Executive Kevin Phelps, includes staff from both agencies as well as other leaders in her administration, with a report due by Jan. 15, 2010.

The Human Services department administers aging and long-term care programs, as well as services for chemical dependency, developmental disabilities and mental health. Community Services provides a variety of services to low-income families, including housing, and it also promotes arts and cultural activities and partners with the WSU Pierce County Extension to promote agricultural issues.

Another effort seeks to improve the county's system of issuing land-use permits. Staff from Planning and Land Services (PALS) have been working with staff from Public Works and Utilities on a plan to streamline the permit system.

"Lots of ideas are on the table," McCarthy said. "Some may work, and some won't. But we have to explore these options as deeply as possible in order to make sure taxpayers are getting the most bang for their buck."