As one who has worked in the public housing field for more than 40 years, I was delighted to see that your Jan. 12 editorial “Merger of housing agencies will reduce waste, cronyism” captured the essence of Governor Patrick’s proposal: to improve the quality of the lives of the people living in the state’s public housing.

Consolidating 240 housing authorities into six regional agencies sounds simple and rational. But much debate and expenditure of political muscle will be required to make the change. There are many details to be worked out before the reorganization can come to a successful conclusion, and there are many parties with a vested interest in keeping the ramshackle system exactly as it is.