ABOUT MDESTAT

What is MDEStat?

MDEStat is the primary management and accountability process used by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). MDEStat enables proactive management and aims to improve MDE’s effectiveness and efficiency through intensive, systematic, data-driven oversight, ensuring that MDE is making the best possible use of its resources. It is modeled after the successful CitiStat program pioneered in Baltimore City by then-Mayor Martin O’Malley.

How Does MDEStat Work?

MDEStat Panel - MDEStat is guided by regular meetings of the MDEStat Panel. The Panel is composed of MDE’s Secretary, Deputy Secretaries, Budget Director, Operational Services Director, IT Director, Principal Counsel, and the MDEStat Director. The MDEStat Panel reviews performance data for each Administration about once per month. MDEStat meetings are held weekly on Monday mornings, and are open to all.

In Advance of MDEStat Meetings - Accurate and timely data is critical to the success of the MDEStat process. Prior to each meeting, the administration or office on that meeting’s agenda is required to submit data to the MDEStat Director. The MDEStat data submissions cover a wide variety of activities and information, from permitting and inspections, to outcome measures such as air quality, to internal processes such as filling vacancies.
After the submission is received, the MDEStat Office analyzes the information and prepares a briefing memo for the Panel members, with data summaries and suggested questions. The MDEStat Office is responsible for critically reviewing the information, comparing it to previously-submitted information, asking follow-up questions, and holding meetings as needed.

At MDEStat Meetings - At the meetings, the managers answer questions from the Panel that are based on data submitted by the Administration and analyzed by the MDEStat Office. Opportunities for improvement, follow-up, and additional useful data are identified.

After Each MDEStat Meeting - After an Administration or office director meets at MDEStat, s/he receives a follow-up memo from the MDEStat Director. This memo may include a variety of requests including new actions to be taken, reconsideration or refocusing of existing activities, consideration of alternative approaches or policy changes, or additional data. Generally all requests have deadlines prior to the director’s next MDEStat appearance.

Who Manages MDEStat?

Sue Battle-McDonald, Andrew Gosden, and Kathi Russell-Lipman manage the MDEStat process and welcome questions and suggestions anytime.
 

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