The performance of Omaha consultant John McGee, hired to monitor progress in implementing a settlement agreement involving the Beatrice State Developmental Center, has been disappointing and baffling.

His work to date has drawn vocal criticism from state senators, U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson and Gov. Dave Heineman.

The criticism is justified. McGee should improve his performance, and quickly, or he should be replaced.

One of McGee's most obvious lapses is that he has failed to keep pace with the number of reports specified in the settlement agreement, which states that McGee should submit written reports "at least every quarter."

That agreement was signed July 2.

McGee turned in one report in February. A draft of his second report is now being circulated, but it could be as much as three weeks before it becomes final.

"I think we've all been disappointed frankly with Mr. McGee," Heineman said last month in an interview on KLIN Radio. "He needs to get these reports done. It would help all of us."

As weeks turned into months with no second report, Sen. Steve Lathrop of Omaha turned to Nelson for help. Nelson wrote the U.S. Justice Department, noting, "It is essential that the issues relating to noncompliance are addressed immediately and thoroughly."

Those issues, it's worth remembering, included neglect and abuse at the Beatrice center that were factors in recent deaths and injuries. The settlement agreement lists 140 "remedial measures" that the state has agreed to undertake.

Another looming problem is that McGee's reports have not provided much specific information on whether progress is being made.

That weakness was evident in his first report. And those who have seen the draft of McGee's second report said Thursday that it suffers from the same lack of detail.

"It's pretty general," Lathrop said. "It's difficult to tell whether he doesn't have a grasp of what is supposed to happen or if nothing is being done."

The difficulty that McGee seems to be having in fulfilling his duties is surprising. McGee is highly respected in the field of developmental disabilities. Both sides to the lawsuit were pleased when he agreed to monitor progress.

As Lathrop noted, it's possible that in the final second report turned in, McGee may be considerably improved from the early draft.

Ideally, McGee will overcome his slow, halting start and begin living up to the terms of his contract.

But the dreadful incidents of neglect and abuse at the center demand that the independent monitor have a sense of commitment and urgency. The responsibility is too great, and the expense of McGee's $290,000 contract is too high to tolerate inadequate work.