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发帖数: 901 | 1 From: Governor Christine Gregoire [mailto:Governor.ChristineGregoire@
GOVERNOR.WA.GOV]
Sent: Thursday, November 18, 2010 3:02 PM
To: A*****************[email protected]
Subject: Message from the Governor
Dear Colleague:
Two words sum up my reaction to this morning’s revenue forecast: enough
already.
Like you, I can’t stomach more bad fiscal news. Today’s forecast took an
already difficult situation and made it worse. The projection takes $385
million from this year’s budget and $809 million from the 2011–13 budget.
While the projection has immediate consequences, it also creates a $5.7
billion deficit for the next biennium.
I’m disheartened and disappointed, but I’m still fighting. Our state must
emerge from this recession as strong as possible. I’m working to assure
that we come through this period with the confidence and faith of the public
we serve.
I was surprised by today’s announcement, given that our revenues have been
closely tracking the September forecast. While we weren’t expecting a great
uptick, we were not anticipating such a steep decline. With the revenue
lost today, across-the-board cuts would add another 4.6 percent to the 6.3
percent reductions I ordered last month. That is not workable.
The Legislature has provided the Office of the Governor limited tools to
manage these shortfalls. With the across-the-board cuts now being
implemented, I have already pushed that option to the limit. I have asked
legislative leaders of both parties to provide to me by November 29 their
options on how to address the shortfall. The Legislature will need to act.
As we progress over the next few weeks and months, I will continue to let
you know where the budget stands — and where I stand. I welcome your ideas
and input, as do your agency directors.
Thank you for continuing to hang in there during these toughest of times. I
know you are doing incredibly challenging work and facing uncertain futures.
I know the term ‘state employee’ has become a target for many in the
media.
We must continue to lead through these times, let taxpayers know the value
that government provides to them, and be responsive to public demands for
more reductions in spending, and more efficient and modernized systems.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me, or those inside your agencies, to
share ideas, frustrations and concerns.
Sincerely, Chris |
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