Alex Washington's Dilemma

The Dilemma at the Public Service Department
Introduction
Alex Washington was recently appointed by the governor to be commissioner of the state’s Public Service Department, making him the second appointee to this position in the governor’s first term. Before accepting the appointment, Mr. Washington heard rumors about major problems within the department from associates who also work in state government positions. In addition to the rumors, he has received unsigned letters detailing an assortment of violations of departmental policies and regulations which he dismissed as unsubstantiated; this judgment stemming from Mr. Washington’s belief that whistle-blower laws are strong enough to allay an individual’s fears of retaliation. Certainly, if the allegations outlined in the letters were valid, an individual would claim authorship. Now, six weeks following his appointment, Mr. Washington is in possession of several signed letters outlining impropriety in the department, three of which he decides to personally investigate. Corroborating evidence is uncovered that proves the claims are valid, yet upon questioning, the bureau chiefs involved deny any wrongdoing in the matters stated. Mr. Washington’s research determines the allegations have merit, prompting a continuation of his investigation. Recognizing corruption in
Washington is ignoring unintended consequences. Bargaining and compromising are necessary to gain compliance and to elicit change in an organization’s culture, however, there is no way to predict how these factors will be received by participants in the process or how they will react. Those who have remained on the periphery, remaining silent due to fear of reprisal, may come forward with complaints. Issues such as guilty parties escaping punishment, may upset Mr. Washington’s plan for restoring ethical integrity to his department. When speaking to the Governor about this matter, he should alert him to this