In 2005, Jim Petro unveiled bold plans for restructuring state government. The proposal was the centerpiece of his campaign for governor. He encountered defeat in the Republican primary.

Now he’s back, his big idea in tune with John Kasich and the spirit of operating state government in much different ways.

The new governor has selected Petro, a former state auditor and attorney general, to lead the Ohio Board of Regents.

Petro begins his job in a week. Already an idea has surfaced from his plan of six years ago, the concept of charter universities. Virginia has implemented the model.

It involves an exchange: A state-supported university gains regulatory relief. In return, the school agrees to take less state money. The thinking is, the greater flexibility and freedom to manage will generate the savings necessary to avoid financial harm, and perhaps come out ahead.

Luis Proenza, the president of the University of Akron, embraces the concept. Lester Lefton, the president of Kent State University, is intrigued.

The idea is worth exploring, as long universities do not overreach, a real concern as misguided ideas surface about winning exemptions from civil service requirements and public meeting laws. …

Akron Beacon Journal