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And the PFD. Almost everyone shrieks when it sounds like someone might reduce the payout a couple dollars. It might be zero next year no matter what, but that of course wouldn't enter into political decisions.

Fran has stated that our state budget shortfall can't be solved by budget cuts. B.S. Just in the last two days I've run across two items in the local paper that are highly questionable.

$100,000 for a feasability study of a causeway from Anchorage to Fire Island.
Who in the hell goes to Fire Island? There is nothing there. And this is just for a study.

$150,000 for a water and sewer analysis and design for Funny River Road.
I live on Funny River Road and I don't want their blasted water and sewer or the added property taxes that go with them.

Maybe Fran could cut out some of that legislative travel to and from Juneau. Maybe that would save the state a buck or two.

They have made substantial cuts over the years, but in wrong areas. Looking at the State land auction flyer, I see nothing but leftover, unsellable lots in state subdivisions. Nothing attractive. The State has cut DNR, eliminated State cadastral surveying, and made fresh offerings of homestead acreage impossible. There is some fine land, but it is off the market. At the same time they talk about state budget shortfall. Shortsighted, when the solution is within reach.