In today’s Salt Lake Tribune (August 3, 2006), it is reported that Utah is expecting a $350 million surplus. The question: with so many worthy causes, where should the excess cash go? My answer: to education.
Leadership is about priorities. There are many worthy causes – including returning the money to taxpayers via tax cut. However, we need to step up to the plate with this gift that our growing economy has provided and ensure we can compete in the future with an increasingly competitive world.
I propose the following for surplus funds:
Education
• Put 2/3 of the $350 million surplus (approximately $231 million) into education.
• Money should be directed to three (3) education reforms:
o Reduction of class sizes, grades 1-3
o Merit pay for teachers
o Expansion of math and science classes for high school students
Surplus
• Put the remaining 1/3 into a rainy day fund. With crisis in the Middle East, high gas prices, et cetera, our economy may not always be as vibrant. Wisdom teaches us to prepare for those down cycles and rainy days.
As your state legislator, I understand taxpayer dollars don’t grow on trees. With the resources the hard working men and women provide our community, it is important we have priorities. My priority is to provide the best education possible for every child.
