"Public officials in Richmond often feel that they are unjustly criticized, and think that persons who criticize are in error; if there proves to be no ground for criticism, it will be well for all to know it; if there proves to be just ground for criticism, an opportunity for removal of the same is presented.

"It is a common charge, whether true or not, that there is an unfortunate condition of apathy among our citizens about the conduct of government in Richmond. It is the testimony of observers that the results of administrative surveys arouse discussion, create interest and help to remove apathy.

"It is understood that despite the able and patriotic efforts of the auditor and the Finance Committee of the City Council, the just demands on the City Treasury are greatly in excess of the annual revenue, and that the actual expenditures run beyond the revenue by several hundred thousand dollars. It is even thought by some that in consequence of this and heavy demands that cannot receive attention otherwise, the tax rate of the city will have to be raised.

"The men from the New York bureau have been able to suggest in many places natural ways of cutting down unnecessary expenses and to assist in improving the city's finances."  "For citizens and public officials alike, exact information and constructive suggestions are necessary as a basis of further governmental advances in Richmond." 