Whoever wrote the title for the February 5 Our View entitled “Another loss for Otter, but a big win for Idahoans” either didn’t read his own story or was thinking more about politics than accuracy.
So what are the facts? To start with, the decision to close Dworshak Park in September 2009 was made by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) Board. It was the result of a required holdback based on projected income shortfall. The board made the choice and then reversed itself last week. They now will have to find another way to cut spending and my guess is someone else will scream because there is no easy or painless way to do what has to be done.
The Governor has said repeatedly that the budget is going to be balanced as required by the Constitution and that it will be done without raising taxes. He challenged IDPR to develop a business plan that would get them off the general fund but would keep the parks open. Every opportunity for saving had to be investigated so the Governor proposed consolidating agencies/departments. He asked each department to study the pros and cons and provide him their findings and recommendations. During IDPR’s study of merging with the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL), facts about the management of Harriman Park were found that made the combination of the two agencies impossible. That information was provided to the Governor. The proposed consolidation between IDPR and IDL was dropped; however, IDPR is still working hard to meet the Governor’s challenge. No question it is a difficult challenge but because no other state has done it; doesn’t mean Idaho cannot
State employees, appointees and elected officials from the legislature to the Governor’s office are working to salvage the best of the state agencies while balancing a budget for the hardworking taxpayers of Idaho. When something good comes out of the process like not closing a state park; everyone wins including our Governor. When all is said and done, we will have a leaner and more efficient state government, benefitting all of us.
Sandra F. Mitchell
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