The DoCL Disconnect Myth

One of the main points of contention during election season is the Department of Commerce and Labor, or DoCL. From candidates to constituents, everyone has a take on DoCL. Many believe that the department is too bureaucratic, too hard to reach, that delays are too long, or that there’s a systemic disconnect between DoCL and business owners.

Weazel News met with Commissioner Charlotte Baker to learn about her take on the current state of DoCL. Senior Board Member Wyatt McKenzie was also present and offered his own perspective.

Like many organizations in San Andreas, DoCL suffers from a labor shortage. While their team used to number twenty people, they are now down to five active agents. When asked about hiring, Commissioner Baker admitted that finding the right people can be challenging, and the work can easily become overwhelming.

Mr. Wyatt McKenzie described his work as the center of organized chaos. San Andreas is home to more than 350 businesses. As a result, DoCL has to handle business licenses, premise licenses, various permits, and other requests daily. This, of course, means that patience can be required.

Of course, every business is unique, and according to Commissioner Baker, many have a good, productive relationship with DoCL.

“I do hear that a lot myself, that there’s a disconnect between business owners and DoCL, although I don’t see it personally. I believe that we have good communication with a lot of business owners. If someone doesn’t know how to process something or how to put in an application, we’re always available to help. If someone has a problem and believes that there’s a disconnect, I would love to hear it.”

Both Ms. Baker and Mr. McKenzie are very insistent on the importance of communication. They insist that they keep an open-door policy. This is, in fact, what they would like to see from their elected representatives: More two-way communication.

One issue that DoCL is currently working on is the number of inactive businesses in the state, although no concrete solution has yet been found. Commissioner Baker doesn’t believe legislation is the way to solve this problem. However, Mr. McKenzie specified that not running a business is not illegal.

Ezekiel McDaniel, the owner of Full Send Repair, admitted that DoCL is more than likely swamped but doing their best. He told Weazel News that if he could change one thing, he would like an easier way to contact DoCL. The lack of presence in the Fed Finder app is an issue that’s often brought up.

Ultimately, DoCL is a department charged with a heavy responsibility and a rather small team behind it. Every business is unique, and miscommunication is always a risk in any endeavor. Perhaps better communication tools are required.