We got this email from Joe Rogalsky on Friday in response to our letter to them:
My apologies for the delayed response, things have been a little hectic down here today.
You’re right, the Governor always welcomes suggestions about ways Delaware can meet the historic challenges facing us. There are many parts of his proposal the Governor did not want to have to propose, including the temporary pay reduction for state employees. The pay reduction made the Governor sick to his stomach. He is particularly interested in ways to reduce the cut and ensure that it is temporary. That’s why he is working so hard to pass his sports lottery legislation.
The Governor and his team are reviewing Rep. Kowalko’s proposed alternatives. Delaware will not be able to tax its way out of the historic challenges facing the state, so any proposal will have to include significant spending reductions. The Governor has also been clear that the budget proposal will have to be sustainable and position Delaware for future growth. It’s critical that the state not increase taxes too much to overburden families or businesses struggling during this significant economic downturn.
As the budget process moves forward, the Governor and his team will be working with Rep. Kowalko, members of the Joint Finance Committee, legislative leadership and all other General Assembly members to make the tough choices needed to solve the historic budget shortfall.
Joe
While we appreciate the response from the Governors office, and we recognize that things are pretty hectic in Dover, this feels like a blow-off to me. What do you think?