The GSA Investigates The Investigator

The General Services Administration took steps this week to reassert itself in the community controversy over the preparation of an environmental impact study for the proposed John F. Kennedy Memorial Library.

Arthur F. Sampson, the GSA chief administrator, announced the agency will undertake a formal review of its $184,000 contract for the study with C.E. Maguire Inc.

The GSA said the investigation of Maguire is in response to publicity given allegations against the integrity and impartiality of the consulting firm.

Sampson also named Joseph B. O'Malley to serve "temporarily" as the GSA's administrator for the Kennedy Library, replacing Robert T. Griffin, the permanent special administrator.

O'Malley declined this week to give out any details of the investigation of Maguire, but said he expected a report to be ready within "weeks."

GSA meanwhile gave Maguire the "full steam ahead" signal on its contract review--prompting Cambridge City Councilor Saundra Graham to wonder publicly just how thorough the investigation will be.