[flu189]

Just read through the governor's speech and for many he reiterated several realities and facts which have a direct bearing on Vermont today and implications for the future. It's important information for those of us already here and also for those contemplating moving here to understand some key features how we do business especially when Vt at least in print has the distinction of having one of the highest, if not the highest per capita tax burden. There was no sure fire solution and course of action, nor did I expect one, but it impressed me that at least he laid some key facts on the table. It was unique to say the least to have someone come out and publicly acknowledge that our public education system is on a "collision course with reality." Since just 2006 education costs borne by Vt taxpayers have increased 23% with 4.4% decrease in students (4,300). He pointed out that for each student that has left the rolls schools have added-not reduced- $65,000 in costs. Since 1997 we have lost over 10,000 students (-10%) yet staffing has increased by 3,500 positions (+22%). He also stated that Act 60and Act 68 which drives the costs and taxes to pay for same is "broken and beyond repair." It will be very interesting to see what decisions and actions will now be undertaken to get our budget in line.

[MTK1]

The transcript can be found here:
Transcript: Douglas' prepared inaugural address | burlingtonfreepress.com | The Burlington Free Press

[NYLIER]

OMG, those numbers are staggering!! I heard part of the speech a few minutes ago. I am going to read the transcript that MTK1 was so kind to post. Does this mean that there will not be any vote whatsoever in regard to education taxes? Could we be so lucky?

[vter]

I have faith in our governor, but not our current legislature (needless to say the leg. candidates I supported did not get voted in ). Hopefully the legislature will prove me wrong this session but I'm not holding my breath.

[mustmove]

Not the sacred education cow. Cows are all VT has. King Jim isn't much of a conservative but at least he has a foot in reality the legislature not so much, heck not even close. If you like train wrecks it should be fun to watch.

[flu189]

It's no surprise that the Guv's speech struck a nerve as the educrats and their brethren are already circling the wagons. For goodness sake, all the govenor even suggested is to merely just freeze the budget increases through 2010 and stop the raiding of the general fund and transportation fund to funnel even more into the education furnace. The suggestion to revisit Act 60/68 is sound, but I am afraid that the bulk of the legislature will refuse to deal with this. I sincerely hope this will be an awakening or we will surely bankrupt ourselves. The legislature is still promoting the fantasy hope of O'bama bailout bucks to keep our current caloric intake where it is. Everybody is being forced to cut back and realign their lives, well almost everybody, and the notion that an area of state spending which consumes the bulk of tax monies is to be somehow exempt from strict oversight and adjustment to meet fiscal and demographic realities is absurd.

[mustmove]

<shreik>what about the children?<shreik>

[arctichomesteader]

THis state would turn around quick if the NEA bunch were thrown out so we can get some control over the school spending.

[OhBeeHave]

Originally Posted by mustmove

<shreik>what about the children?<shreik>

[Sherylcatmom]

That totally cracks me up! :-)