Chairman’s Message
February 18, 2011
Dear Friend,
John Kalamarides
Dan has said all along that the State was in “terrible, terrible shape.” I agree with everyone who has called it “honest” and “balanced.” The “shared sacrifice” aspect is important. It asks something of each of us.
I was impressed that he did not lay off thousands of state workers who would then be unemployed. Rather he has asked for $1 billion dollars in concessions this year—and next year (and these same workers have to pay the increased taxes that you and I do).
He has kept the same amount of education support for the towns and cities. His emphasis is jobs. He has incentives for corporations. There is no borrowing for operational needs. He will convert the State accounting method to GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) which will tell us honestly where we are and put the State on the same basis as all the cities and towns.
I would rather not have to pay more in taxes or give up tax credits, but if this small sacrifice will help get the State back on its feet, so be it.
I am impressed, too, that he has not come out swinging, making threats, and creating enemies. He is asking everyone to work together to solve the problem, and will tour the State in 17 Town Halls to explain his budget (making a stop in Norwalk on April 4).
I suspect after the shock wears off that the General Assembly, the unions, and the taxpayers will settle down to make this plan work.
