On November 7, 2006 voters in California will be asked to decide on five ballot measures that would total $42.7 billion in new general obligation bond debt if approved. Propositions 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E and 84 would push the State of California deeper into debt. On their face, each Proposition looks enticing, promising funds will go to a number of politically popular purposes.
There is no doubt that the State of California needs to invest in infrastructure – and needs investments in many of the areas addressed by the propositions on the November ballot. But all too often in government, what you pay for is not always what you get. Government loves to throw good money after bad.
I’m concerned the same is happening with the infrastructure package. New research will be released this week that demonstrates how the package being placed before the voters has several serious flaws. It is important that voters know about those flaws before the November 7th election so that they can make an informed decision.
On Tuesday, September 19th I will participate in a virtual press conference for reporters and opinion leaders from across the state as this new research is released. Please consider joining us for a discussion on the bonds.
- WHEN: September 19, 2006, 10:30a.m. n 11:00a.m.
- WHO: Carl DeMaio n President, The Performance Institute
Hon. Bill Leonard n Member, State Board of Equalization
Adrian Moore n Vice President of Research, The Reason Foundation
Hon. Chuck DeVore n Assemblymember, 70th District. - HOW: Click here to join the virtual teleconference.
With that, my time blogging in Café San Diego today has come to an end. It has been a pleasure to share some ideas on how we all can shine a light on government and holding government accountable for efficiency and better results.