Ottawa County, Michigan has developed and implemented a first-of-its-kind comprehensive performance measurement system to verify that public tax dollars are used to support successful and cost-effective programs and services. One of the primary goals of the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners is to continually improve the County’s organization and services, as well as to maximize financial resources. In order to provide the Board with data and information about the cost and effectiveness of programs and services, a Performance Verification System was developed. This unique system allows Board members and the public to continually monitor the specific performance of programs and departments and allows them to make fully informed decisions about the allocation of financial resources.