I think I have finally had it with this excuse by state and local governments faced with budget shortfalls. As one who voted for Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal, to say I am disappointed is a understatement.
Unchecked growth in government at all levels has left more and more people dependant on some form of support these days. In 1996 Louisiana's budget was 11.9 Billion dollars. This year it was over 28 Billion. An increase of one hundred and forty four percent (144%). All while Louisiana's population has declined over one (1%) percent.
The parish of St. Tammany had a budget of 66 million in 2005. This year they cut it back to 99 million. This still is an increase of 50% over four years. The elected politicians refuse to cut their own throat. Property taxes, etc are at all time highs and they have finally broke the camels back.
What is the politicians answer? To raise taxes and start new programs of course. People if you don't email, call or do something to stop this unchecked takeover of the economy you can blame no one but YOURSELF.
I would love to hear similar stories from around the country. I am sure they won't be hard to find.
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We are cutting in Texas. Programs are being delayed, stopped or funds arrived from a different means. All is going well here. Unemployment is holding its own as is real estate. If the funds are an investment to draw people back, then there may be some merit to the investment. But don't draw them back too soon as they are buying homes here.