Chairman Sarbanes, Senator Gramm, and Members of the Committee:

It is an honor and privilege to appear before you as President Bush's nominee for Assistant Secretary for Policy Development and Research at the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

I am looking forward to the prospect of leading HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research (PD&R) to develop creative, well-structured solutions to the housing and community development problems facing the nation. If confirmed, I intend to implement a long-term strategic approach to problem-solving that uses research and analysis to gain a comprehensive understanding of the problems confronting our cities and rural communities. This understanding will provide a strong foundation for innovative, long-term solutions.

While I recognize the need to apply creative problem-solving to the immediate issues facing the nation, I believe it is equally important to anticipate issues the country will face in the coming decades. This will enable PD&R to develop productive policy options addressing emerging issues.

Another important responsibility of the Office of Policy Development and Research is to conduct evaluations of HUD programs ensuring the programs are operating as Congress intended. The Secretary's FY 2003 budget envisions an expansion of this important activity.

I would like to thank you for scheduling this hearing during a very busy time in the session. I look forward to learning of key issues and concerns of the Committee to ensure PD&R's research agenda fully addresses them.

I appreciate your time and look forward to working with members and staff of this Committee.