In almost every case, we've produced better quality services for the citizens of Philadelphia. That is very, very important. If privatization just saves money and produces an inferior product, it will fail. I think that, in almost every case, we're able to deliver a better product. Oversight is absolutely crucial. . . .
People do treat the government as a cash cow, as a simpleton.
They assume that government isn't going to exercise any oversight or manage outside contracts. So, if competitive contracts are going to be successful, it's crucial to have the best oversight we possibly can. In most areas, we do a good job overseeing these contracts. When you let down your guard, it's easy to get burned and it can burn the entire process. That's why you have to have the ability to convince your vendors they have to perform if they want to keep their contract.