FEBRUARY 14, 2003

In keeping with her commitment to visit all Secretary of State branch offices within a year, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land today visited the Detroit New Center branch office.  Secretary Land met with customers, employees, local officials and the media to discuss her goals for improving customer service in the branch offices.

“Providing good customer service is one of my top priorities,” Secretary Land said.  “Customers and employees are the best sources of information about what is working well and what improvements are still needed in our branch offices.”

“I am impressed with the dedication and commitment to serve customers well at this branch office.  Last year, the Detroit New Center branch office processed almost 75,000 transactions.”

During her visit, Secretary Land touched on how she plans to achieve improved customer service in part through advancements in technology and extended branch office hours.  “Technology is rapidly transforming the way in which citizens can do business in Michigan.  Moving more of the Department of State’s services online is a cost effective way to deliver services that is also convenient to our customers.  I am also exploring extending branch office hours through the use of employee flex time.”

Land added that the Detroit New Center branch office connects to the community through its work with the local Job Corp, where young adults are given a fresh start in life.  Two days a week, students from the Job Corp take driver permit tests for the first time.  This office is also located near Crossroads, an organization that assists the homeless.  The branch informs the Crossroads staff of the identification requirements needed for state identification cards.

Secretary Land visited the Detroit New Center branch office, 3046 W. Grand Blvd., from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.