Letter to the Editor: Dayton's Cuts Aren't Really Cuts

To the editor:

In my simple mind I’ve tried to summarize the big picture of the Minnesota budget debate and why a shut down is occurring. Fortunately or unfortunately, this “forcing event” is just what we need to make meaningful changes/choices/priorities.

The Republicans proposed a $34.2 billion budget consisting of the 2011 state forecast of $33.3 billion in expected revenue (includes school cost shifting) PLUS using $900 million of the state’s cash reserves. Republicans agreed to spend reserves.

The Governor in his June 30 speech said "cuts reduced my proposed budget to $35.7 billion, slightly lower than the $35.8 billion I offered as a half-way compromise six weeks ago."

As a result of not agreeing to spend expected revenue, Gov. Mark Dayton allowed the government shutdown.

Am I to believe the Governor actually meant he made "cuts"...REALLY? It may be a “cut” in what he thinks or wants to be spent, but it is no way a “cut” in what was spent the previous year.

According to his math, in that same June 30 speech, the 7700 Minnesotan's making $1 million or more will fund $700 million of his $1.5 billion ($35.7-34.2) increased spending PLUS he agreed to the Republican’s $700 million K-12 school aid payment shift (a delay not cut).

So let me see if I understand this: Dayton wants to INCREASE spending by $2.4 billion ($1.5 billion + $900 million of cash reserves) and Republicans want to limit spending to expected revenue plus use $900 million of cash reserves. I don’t know what you’d do in that situation, but I’d be conservative and limit spending until revenue increases. Making smaller budget adjustments now, and along the way, is far better than austerity (dramatic) ones later! Think Greece…

Governor Dayton, now is your time to decide and be a responsible leader. Do what is fiscally sound and prudent. Please agree on the $34.2 billion budget bill and get this state moving forward!

Jim Christian, Lakeville