Here’s what I think we should do with our $5 billion budget surplus
I recently submitted this letter to the editor of the Arizona Daily Sun outlining ways we can invest in Arizona’s future rather than giving even more tax cuts to the weathiest among us.
Here’s an excerpt from my letter:
“Securing our water future by investing in reclaimed water infrastructure and conservation measures throughout the state would benefit all. Getting more money into classrooms and to stressed-out teachers and school staff, including counselors, will pay dividends by retaining skilled employees and improving student educational outcomes.
Investing in clean energy gives Arizona residents and businesses workforce development opportunities and gives us a boost in addressing the realities of climate change. Similarly, expanding broadband and diversifying our transportation networks improves our quality of life and enables robust economic development.
Finally, it’s time for the state to get serious about addressing our shortage of workforce housing. This shortage is a significant obstacle to the stability of our communities, health of our residents, and employers’ abilities to retain and attract skilled workers. This is a problem that has repeatedly been kicked down the road and we can no longer ignore it.”
According to the Center for the Future of Arizona, voters agree with me. Poll results released on June 15 reveal that Arizona voters want the Legislature and Governor to make investments in “education, public safety, roads, and other critical investments that will boost our long-term economic growth.”
“Support included 70% of Republicans, 93% of independent/unaffiliated voters, and 95% of Democrats.” Read more…
