MN online citizen budget session

Office of the Governor ^ | 11-27-04 | Rakkasan1

[Rakkasan1]

As we prepare the state’s budget for the next biennium (2006-2007), we have the great responsibility and opportunity to chart a positive course for the future of Minnesota.

In January of 2003, when I took office, Minnesota faced an historic $4.5 billion deficit and the state’s budget reserves were gone. After a great deal of work, we finished fiscal year 2004 with a positive balance, our budget is currently balanced and we have replenished the budget reserve. In short, we have made great progress in the last two years.

Projections for the next biennium predict a deficit of $400 million. If inflationary pressures are included, the projected deficit is expected to approach $1 billion. Although our revenues are increasing, the state’s spending is projected to increase at a much faster rate. We need to break that cycle, in addition to properly funding our key priorities and quality of life initiatives.

To achieve this goal, we will create a priority based budget that includes citizen input and an emphasis on performance. Our plan will increase accountability and produce better results for Minnesota’s citizens.

Sincerely,

Tim Pawlenty

[Rakkasan1]

33,700 FULL-TIME employees... nah, we've got it to the bone.

There, I balanced the budget.That wasn' so bad.

[RichLane]

um how bout you cut welfare by 3/4 give 1/4 of the savings to the salvation army you knock 50% off a big chunk of cash and get better service! liberal rebuttal But that means we wont be able to by drugs with our welfare check

[Rakkasan1]

exactly.
"Minnesota Nice"= don't work, we'll take care of you