Join the group here:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=82504560885
Thursday, June 4, 2009
BUDGET CRISIS
Last night the Alameda County Dem Party voted unanimously to approve the following statement:
Californians deserve real solutions to the budget deficit. Responding to our economic crisis with an all-cuts budget will only make the state's problems worse. Deep cuts to vital programs undermine our economic recovery and President Obama’s investment in economic stimulus, disproportionately harm the most vulnerable Californians, and go against our core values.
More than 70 percent of voters sat out the May 19 special election because it is the Governor and Legislature’s job to fix the budget. Polls show the defeat of the initiatives was neither an endorsement of an all-cuts approach nor a rejection of raising revenues.
Under Governor Schwarzenegger, California has seen $12.5 billion in tax cuts. Drastic spending cuts will irrevocably change the state we love. Californians support and deserve a state that provides for the common good and the needs of our residents, and we have the resources to make that possible. Cuts are not the only option!
Our state needs courageous leadership. We will support those who stand against an all-cuts budget, speak out for fair ways of raising revenue, and work to deliver a budget that invests in our future and protects all the people of our state. True leaders get their strength from the people they represent. We pledge to be that strength, and mobilize to support a sensible budget solution.
Californians deserve real solutions to the budget deficit. Responding to our economic crisis with an all-cuts budget will only make the state's problems worse. Deep cuts to vital programs undermine our economic recovery and President Obama’s investment in economic stimulus, disproportionately harm the most vulnerable Californians, and go against our core values.
More than 70 percent of voters sat out the May 19 special election because it is the Governor and Legislature’s job to fix the budget. Polls show the defeat of the initiatives was neither an endorsement of an all-cuts approach nor a rejection of raising revenues.
Under Governor Schwarzenegger, California has seen $12.5 billion in tax cuts. Drastic spending cuts will irrevocably change the state we love. Californians support and deserve a state that provides for the common good and the needs of our residents, and we have the resources to make that possible. Cuts are not the only option!
Our state needs courageous leadership. We will support those who stand against an all-cuts budget, speak out for fair ways of raising revenue, and work to deliver a budget that invests in our future and protects all the people of our state. True leaders get their strength from the people they represent. We pledge to be that strength, and mobilize to support a sensible budget solution.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
A REPOST FROM THE NEWSLETTER
Well, it has been pretty busy lately, for me at least. Work, politics and my music all demand a lot of time, and I still have to remember to live my life, spend time with friends, and even clean my apartment. UGH! On the work front, well, that is a never-ending slog through the mud. While music is always enjoyable for me, there is the other side of it with planning & scheduling rehearsals & shows, schlepping equipment and set up & tear down time. It is usually worth it in the end though. Politics I will address at the end of this column.
I think I’m forgetting something? Hmmm? Oh yes, volunteerism. Didn’t our new president ask us to get involved on a regular basis in our communities? And then Barbara went and got us involved at Chipman School. I jumped right in at first, but then all of the planning meetings started conflicting with other things and I could not make them all. I really am more of a “hands-on do the thing” guy than a planning guy, to tell the truth. So last Saturday I was excited to get to actually do something at the school. I had another event in the morning and promised to be at the school by 1:30 pm. When I arrived, all of the work was finished and I just stood there with the tools I had brought thinking that I wished there were something left to do. I missed the boat. My point is that volunteerism can be something that you look forward to doing rather than just another entry on a long to do list. See my point? Kudos to those who showed up on Saturday!
Politics: First, I went to the candidate training held by the County Central Committee on Saturday past. Having been to other trainings of this type, I’d say they did a pretty good job of it. They will have another intro-training later in the year and a full blown “let’s learn to be a candidate” training also. I will forever pitch these trainings too you guys. Its good stuff! Really!
Secondly, I’ve been getting involved in a number of legislation tracking and promotion activities at the state level. A number of people from the County Central Committee, 16th AD delegates, club leadership and other activists have rallied behind Sandre Swanson and some of the legislation that he wants to get passed. The state party’s Progressive Caucus has a like effort selecting legislation in a number of key areas. I have volunteered (there’s that word again) to be the 16th AD liaison for this effort. If any of you want to be involved in either of these, or have pet legislation you’d like to see pass, let me know and I will get you involved. That would mean phoning, writing, and/or going to see electeds face to face.
To segue, there was a meeting last Monday night that again brought together a bunch of activists and party leadership. We have formed a new group called “Fix the Budget Now.org”. (There will be a website within days.) Our belief is that the largest problem with our state budget is that we are collecting revenue in an intelligent, effective, and fair way. We have concrete and detailed ideas on how sufficient revenue could be collected. Our aim is to lobby the governor, legislature republicans, and legislature democrats, taking a different angle with each, to convince them to begin to do their job by providing us with a sane, rational, and adult budgeting process. Pie in the sky you might say? This is a serious effort that has already begun.
This same group will continue on to making efforts to reform our elections processes, the 2/3’s requirement, the way we use bonds in the state, the initiative process, etc. We have already reached out to electeds and party leadership at all levels. I hope that each of you will decide to take part in these efforts. Just ask and I’ll tell how.
Lastly, I’ll be in Maryland at an old Navy buddy’s wedding next week, so I’ll see you all in July. Go Democrats!!!
I think I’m forgetting something? Hmmm? Oh yes, volunteerism. Didn’t our new president ask us to get involved on a regular basis in our communities? And then Barbara went and got us involved at Chipman School. I jumped right in at first, but then all of the planning meetings started conflicting with other things and I could not make them all. I really am more of a “hands-on do the thing” guy than a planning guy, to tell the truth. So last Saturday I was excited to get to actually do something at the school. I had another event in the morning and promised to be at the school by 1:30 pm. When I arrived, all of the work was finished and I just stood there with the tools I had brought thinking that I wished there were something left to do. I missed the boat. My point is that volunteerism can be something that you look forward to doing rather than just another entry on a long to do list. See my point? Kudos to those who showed up on Saturday!
Politics: First, I went to the candidate training held by the County Central Committee on Saturday past. Having been to other trainings of this type, I’d say they did a pretty good job of it. They will have another intro-training later in the year and a full blown “let’s learn to be a candidate” training also. I will forever pitch these trainings too you guys. Its good stuff! Really!
Secondly, I’ve been getting involved in a number of legislation tracking and promotion activities at the state level. A number of people from the County Central Committee, 16th AD delegates, club leadership and other activists have rallied behind Sandre Swanson and some of the legislation that he wants to get passed. The state party’s Progressive Caucus has a like effort selecting legislation in a number of key areas. I have volunteered (there’s that word again) to be the 16th AD liaison for this effort. If any of you want to be involved in either of these, or have pet legislation you’d like to see pass, let me know and I will get you involved. That would mean phoning, writing, and/or going to see electeds face to face.
To segue, there was a meeting last Monday night that again brought together a bunch of activists and party leadership. We have formed a new group called “Fix the Budget Now.org”. (There will be a website within days.) Our belief is that the largest problem with our state budget is that we are collecting revenue in an intelligent, effective, and fair way. We have concrete and detailed ideas on how sufficient revenue could be collected. Our aim is to lobby the governor, legislature republicans, and legislature democrats, taking a different angle with each, to convince them to begin to do their job by providing us with a sane, rational, and adult budgeting process. Pie in the sky you might say? This is a serious effort that has already begun.
This same group will continue on to making efforts to reform our elections processes, the 2/3’s requirement, the way we use bonds in the state, the initiative process, etc. We have already reached out to electeds and party leadership at all levels. I hope that each of you will decide to take part in these efforts. Just ask and I’ll tell how.
Lastly, I’ll be in Maryland at an old Navy buddy’s wedding next week, so I’ll see you all in July. Go Democrats!!!
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Friday, May 1, 2009
Activists, Reformers Now Control State Party
by Paul Hogarth‚ Apr. 27‚ 2009
Before the California Democratic Convention ended yesterday, delegates bucked the Party leadership on the May 19th ballot measures – by securing a “no endorsement” on Propositions 1A, 1D and 1E. State legislators and Party operatives pushed “yes” on all six measures, but enough of the grassroots who stayed for the tail end of the session refused to go along. I’ve been attending these Conventions for 12 years, and it’s clear now that activists and “reform” types run the Party – a stark contrast to how it once was. That’s because Howard Dean and Barack Obama brought in a new wave of rank-and-file members, and now we see the impact. College students have replaced the “professional” types that once dominated the Young Democrats caucus. Reformer Hillary Crosby won the race for State Party Controller, and even John Burton’s election as Party Chair is a good thing for the activist wing. Politicians must adapt to this change, and it’s clear some of them – like John Garamendi – still don’t get it. In the race for Governor, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom was not well received at the Convention by delegates from his hometown – as he painted a rosy picture of how things are in the City. And while Chris Daly ran as a “reformer” in the race for Regional Director, other factors contributed his defeat.
Click the title for the whole article...
Before the California Democratic Convention ended yesterday, delegates bucked the Party leadership on the May 19th ballot measures – by securing a “no endorsement” on Propositions 1A, 1D and 1E. State legislators and Party operatives pushed “yes” on all six measures, but enough of the grassroots who stayed for the tail end of the session refused to go along. I’ve been attending these Conventions for 12 years, and it’s clear now that activists and “reform” types run the Party – a stark contrast to how it once was. That’s because Howard Dean and Barack Obama brought in a new wave of rank-and-file members, and now we see the impact. College students have replaced the “professional” types that once dominated the Young Democrats caucus. Reformer Hillary Crosby won the race for State Party Controller, and even John Burton’s election as Party Chair is a good thing for the activist wing. Politicians must adapt to this change, and it’s clear some of them – like John Garamendi – still don’t get it. In the race for Governor, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom was not well received at the Convention by delegates from his hometown – as he painted a rosy picture of how things are in the City. And while Chris Daly ran as a “reformer” in the race for Regional Director, other factors contributed his defeat.
Click the title for the whole article...
When Women Run, Women Win!
CANDIDATES AND FUTURE CANDIDATES!
If you are running for office, considering a run in the future, or just want to know more about the process, this training is for you!
What: NWPC training: So you want to run for office?!
Where: College of Marin, Olney Hall
When: Saturday, May 9, 2009 9:30-3
Who: Experienced campaigners from the NWPC Coaching and Mentoring program, elected officials, campaign professionals and more
Join us for a comprehensive look at what it takes to be a candidate.
Agenda:
9:30: registration, coffee and mingling
10:30-12: From Supe to Sewer: A panel of elected officials talk about their experiences running, their best and worst moments, and more!
12-1: It’s Your Turn: Lunch with introductions (1 min. each) and a presentation by Emerge California, Democratic women’s training program
1-2:30: Fundraising, Phoning and the Fun of the Race: Learn from veteran campaigners and professional consultants how the race is run and won
2:30-3 Wrap up with guest speaker
Only $20 per person All welcome!
To pre-register send your check to:
NWPC Marin
PO Box 113
Kentfield, CA 94904
Please bring a sack lunch
Email Dotty for more information or to rsvp
coastlaw @earthlink .net
When Women Run, Women Win!
If you are running for office, considering a run in the future, or just want to know more about the process, this training is for you!
What: NWPC training: So you want to run for office?!
Where: College of Marin, Olney Hall
When: Saturday, May 9, 2009 9:30-3
Who: Experienced campaigners from the NWPC Coaching and Mentoring program, elected officials, campaign professionals and more
Join us for a comprehensive look at what it takes to be a candidate.
Agenda:
9:30: registration, coffee and mingling
10:30-12: From Supe to Sewer: A panel of elected officials talk about their experiences running, their best and worst moments, and more!
12-1: It’s Your Turn: Lunch with introductions (1 min. each) and a presentation by Emerge California, Democratic women’s training program
1-2:30: Fundraising, Phoning and the Fun of the Race: Learn from veteran campaigners and professional consultants how the race is run and won
2:30-3 Wrap up with guest speaker
Only $20 per person All welcome!
To pre-register send your check to:
NWPC Marin
PO Box 113
Kentfield, CA 94904
Please bring a sack lunch
Email Dotty for more information or to rsvp
coastlaw @earthlink .net
When Women Run, Women Win!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Draft John Garamendi For The 3rd CD
Tell John Garamendi that you want him to run for Congress in the 3rd Congressional district against Dan Lungren in 2010.
http://www.draftgaramendi.com/
http://www.draftgaramendi.com/
Political Training
This is local:
CAMPUS CAMP WELLSTONE: DEANZA COLLEGE CAMPUS CAMP WELLSTONE
May 15-16, Oakland, CA
Campus Camp Wellstone is a 1.5 day training program held on college and university campuses around the country. Our program is non-partisan, and welcomes both seasoned activists and those who are completely new to progressive activism.
We focus on very concrete skills, like the nitty-gritty of campaign planning, coalition building, and message development. We also teach students how to successfully recruit and retain volunteers and develop new leadership.
Campus Camp Wellstone is both serious and exciting-serious because you'll walk away with skills and tools for real-world campaigns, and exciting because it's participatory, vibrant, and led by young trainers. Our trainers are leaders in community organizing, labor, and non-profit organizations.
http://www.wellstone.org/training-calendar/campus-camp-wellstone-deanza-college
These are not exactly local, but they are good programs:
Democracy For America is organizing a 2-day Campaign Training in Redding, CA on June 27-28. Let us know if you can make it!
http://www.democracyforamerica.com/events/31999-dfa-campaign-training-in-redding
Localize This! Action Camp
Join us July 13-18
on Vashon Island
Cost: $200-500 sliding scale
Open to ages 18 and up
Pre-registration and deposit required
http://backbonecampaign.org/page.cfm?id=151#
Ongoing:
DFA Night School: Citizen Lobbying
Event Date: May 26, 2009
Event Time: 8:30 PM EDT
on-line
CAMPUS CAMP WELLSTONE: DEANZA COLLEGE CAMPUS CAMP WELLSTONE
May 15-16, Oakland, CA
Campus Camp Wellstone is a 1.5 day training program held on college and university campuses around the country. Our program is non-partisan, and welcomes both seasoned activists and those who are completely new to progressive activism.
We focus on very concrete skills, like the nitty-gritty of campaign planning, coalition building, and message development. We also teach students how to successfully recruit and retain volunteers and develop new leadership.
Campus Camp Wellstone is both serious and exciting-serious because you'll walk away with skills and tools for real-world campaigns, and exciting because it's participatory, vibrant, and led by young trainers. Our trainers are leaders in community organizing, labor, and non-profit organizations.
http://www.wellstone.org/training-calendar/campus-camp-wellstone-deanza-college
These are not exactly local, but they are good programs:
Democracy For America is organizing a 2-day Campaign Training in Redding, CA on June 27-28. Let us know if you can make it!
http://www.democracyforamerica.com/events/31999-dfa-campaign-training-in-redding
Localize This! Action Camp
Join us July 13-18
on Vashon Island
Cost: $200-500 sliding scale
Open to ages 18 and up
Pre-registration and deposit required
http://backbonecampaign.org/page.cfm?id=151#
Ongoing:
DFA Night School: Citizen Lobbying
Event Date: May 26, 2009
Event Time: 8:30 PM EDT
on-line
U.S. Sen. Specter changing to run as a Democrat
click the title for the story...
Once Al Franken is seated as the junior Senator from Minnesota, Senator Spector will make the Democrats filibuster proof!!!
Once Al Franken is seated as the junior Senator from Minnesota, Senator Spector will make the Democrats filibuster proof!!!
TOP TWENTY REASONS WHY PROPOSITION 1A IS A BAD IDEA
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is for 1A
Tying the Legislature’s hands behind its back is the wrong way to do a budget - We’ve learned that with Props 13 and 98.
In times of recession, the need for State services increases.
Californians only receive 4 years of new taxes in exchange for a permanent spending cap. Permanent cap, temporary revenues = BAD DEAL.
Allows short-term legislators to defer a real budget solution until they are gone
Proposes to fix a symptom rather than the underlying problem
True budget reform must address the structural deficit – 1A does not do this.
Constitutionally removes essential flexibility to deal with the State’s fiscal needs – prevents the Legislature and Governor from setting priorities essential to a particular time.
In financially difficult years will hold State spending at a level that is too low to guarantee adequate services and in good years restricts State from increasing revenues
Undermines our system of checks and balances by allowing the Governor to unilaterally make mid-year cuts without consulting the Legislature
Hastily drafted, behind closed doors, in secret, in the dead of night, without a single hearing or independent analysis
Dictates a shift in spending that can’t be changed, regardless of future needs
Could require cuts to public education, health care, public safety and others in good times
Will not do what it promises and instead will lead to deep cuts in service
The League of Women Voters urges a NO vote
Most observers expect painful degradation of service
Mandates a permanent spending cap
Prohibits legislators from taking full advantage of additional revenues when California comes out of the recession
Shifts responsibility for future budget decisions away from the legislature and onto invisible state employees
Does not fix fundamental budget problem - California is one of only three states requiring a two-thirds legislative majority to pass a budget. Republicans continually hijack the process!
--from Kathy Neal, Dan Wood, and Mario Juarez
Tying the Legislature’s hands behind its back is the wrong way to do a budget - We’ve learned that with Props 13 and 98.
In times of recession, the need for State services increases.
Californians only receive 4 years of new taxes in exchange for a permanent spending cap. Permanent cap, temporary revenues = BAD DEAL.
Allows short-term legislators to defer a real budget solution until they are gone
Proposes to fix a symptom rather than the underlying problem
True budget reform must address the structural deficit – 1A does not do this.
Constitutionally removes essential flexibility to deal with the State’s fiscal needs – prevents the Legislature and Governor from setting priorities essential to a particular time.
In financially difficult years will hold State spending at a level that is too low to guarantee adequate services and in good years restricts State from increasing revenues
Undermines our system of checks and balances by allowing the Governor to unilaterally make mid-year cuts without consulting the Legislature
Hastily drafted, behind closed doors, in secret, in the dead of night, without a single hearing or independent analysis
Dictates a shift in spending that can’t be changed, regardless of future needs
Could require cuts to public education, health care, public safety and others in good times
Will not do what it promises and instead will lead to deep cuts in service
The League of Women Voters urges a NO vote
Most observers expect painful degradation of service
Mandates a permanent spending cap
Prohibits legislators from taking full advantage of additional revenues when California comes out of the recession
Shifts responsibility for future budget decisions away from the legislature and onto invisible state employees
Does not fix fundamental budget problem - California is one of only three states requiring a two-thirds legislative majority to pass a budget. Republicans continually hijack the process!
--from Kathy Neal, Dan Wood, and Mario Juarez
On April 26, 2009
The California Democratic Party Central Committee voted endorsements on the May 19 Special Election:
Prop. 1A--Neutral
Prop. 1B--Endorse
Prop. 1C--Endorse
Prop. 1D--Neutral
Prop. 1E--Neutral
Prop. 1F--Endorse
Prop. 1A--Neutral
Prop. 1B--Endorse
Prop. 1C--Endorse
Prop. 1D--Neutral
Prop. 1E--Neutral
Prop. 1F--Endorse
Just Say No!
Hi folks --
I just got back from a wonderful weekend at the California Democratic Convention, where I was a delegate. This was my fifth convention; this time I went as an appointee of our representative in the State Assembly, Sandré Swanson. (So even though I didn't make it in that election back in January, I still got to go -- whew!)
You can read my "report" about the convention on my local-political blog
My super-condensed recommendation: JUST SAY NO. *Please* vote, definitely, but I'd be just as happy if you voted NO on every one -- well, especially 1A.
But you probably want a bit more detail and perspective and nuance, especially because you are going to be seeing and reading impassioned arguments on both sides of the issue over the days and weeks to come.
First off, who is behind these propositions? It's our state legislators - a democratic majority held hostage by a republican minority to trying to reach 2/3 majority to pass a budget for the state. Year after year, they have a horrible time keeping the state running because, to paraphrase my state Senator (I think it was her), "It's hard to make a deal with somebody who doesn't care about the outcome." These propositions were their Faustian bargain in order to get a budget passed and prevent the state government from shutting down a few months ago. So there is immense pressure by most of the legislators, and Governor Schwarzenegger, to pass this. (I should note that our local representatives, Swanson and Senator Loni Hancock are, bravely, standing in opposition to most other Democrats on this issue.)
The reason these propositions -- especially Proposition 1A, the main one -- are a bad idea is that they are a SHORT-TERM FIX with LONG-TERM DAMAGE to our constitution.
You will probably be getting a lot of pleas to pass these propositions from advocacy groups, especially education groups, saying that we must pass these or terrible things will happen. (I should point out that educators are actually quite split on the issue -- the California Teachers Association (CTA) is for 1A; the California Federation of Teachers and the California Faculty Association are against it.) We are indeed at a precipice but unfortunately with these temporary revenues (starting in two years!) comes a permanent spending cap on state services.
The League of Women Voters says that "this measure would only make things worse." I couldn't agree more. These ballot measures only fix a symptom rather than the fundamental underlying problem. Colorado implemented something like this in 1992 and has suffered greatly because of it.
In the weeks up to the Democratic Convention last week, the state legislators put tremendous pressure on delegates to get the Democratic Party to endorse these measures. Delegates have been deluged with emails, letters and circulars, and personal or robo-phone calls from our party leadership, begging us to endorse their compromise. But it didn't work. The grassroots know better. The party couldn't reach the required number of votes to show a party consensus on Proposition 1A and several others.
I am hoping that with the Republican party (except for Schwarzenegger) in opposition to 1A, and the Democratic Party not taking a position, that this measure and most of the other ones can be defeated, which just means that our representatives in Sacramento will have to continue to fight for a long-term solution. There will still be a lot of money spent on both sides, with most of the Pro-1A funding coming from the aforementioned CTA along with Schwarzenegger's PAC, the billionaire owner of Univision TV, and Chevron, for example. (Hmmm....)
So here is the breakdown on the propositions:
1A - A state spending cap. This is the poison pill that has to go along with 1B. If this passes we are in deep, deep trouble.
1B - Education funding. Looks good but here's the trick - it only goes into effect if Proposition 1A passes. So the Democratic Party came out in support of 1B, but as a symbolic gesture only. Some people are voting "yes" strategically so that if, worst-case, Proposition 1A were to pass, at least we'd get the short-term benefit. I'm inclined to "just say no" to the whole process.
1C - Sells bonds for education backed by lottery revenues. This one did get the nod from the Democratic Party though just barely, which I think is a shame. I agree with one opponent of this who said "balancing the budget on the backs of those who play the lottery is despicable and shameful."
1D, 1E - diverting funding for childhood services and mental health services. This has been described as robbing Peter to pay Paul. The amount of revenue this would save is trivial in any case.
1F - a time-waster initiative that will probably pass because it sounds like a good idea. This blocks pay raises for state officials if the budget is showing a deficit. Sounds like an OK idea on the surface, which is probably why it's doing so well in the polls. I really don't care one way or another if it passes. The Democratic party came out strongly in favor of it despite its many flaws for (as I see it) public relations purposes.
If you are interested in more, check out Calitics, a respected California political blog, which has a really good run-down of these measures, with much more analysis than I can muster.
http://tinyurl.com/calitics-1a
And here are the LWV's positions:
http://ca.lwv.org/action/prop0905/flyer.html
But feel free to reply here or talk to me on the phone if you have any thoughts or questions. I'm by no means the expert on this whole thing, but I talked to a lot of people on both sides of these ballot measures, so maybe I can help you come to a decision for your vote.
And as always, feel free to forward this missive along to your friends and neighbors.
-- Dan
I just got back from a wonderful weekend at the California Democratic Convention, where I was a delegate. This was my fifth convention; this time I went as an appointee of our representative in the State Assembly, Sandré Swanson. (So even though I didn't make it in that election back in January, I still got to go -- whew!)
You can read my "report" about the convention on my local-political blog
My super-condensed recommendation: JUST SAY NO. *Please* vote, definitely, but I'd be just as happy if you voted NO on every one -- well, especially 1A.
But you probably want a bit more detail and perspective and nuance, especially because you are going to be seeing and reading impassioned arguments on both sides of the issue over the days and weeks to come.
First off, who is behind these propositions? It's our state legislators - a democratic majority held hostage by a republican minority to trying to reach 2/3 majority to pass a budget for the state. Year after year, they have a horrible time keeping the state running because, to paraphrase my state Senator (I think it was her), "It's hard to make a deal with somebody who doesn't care about the outcome." These propositions were their Faustian bargain in order to get a budget passed and prevent the state government from shutting down a few months ago. So there is immense pressure by most of the legislators, and Governor Schwarzenegger, to pass this. (I should note that our local representatives, Swanson and Senator Loni Hancock are, bravely, standing in opposition to most other Democrats on this issue.)
The reason these propositions -- especially Proposition 1A, the main one -- are a bad idea is that they are a SHORT-TERM FIX with LONG-TERM DAMAGE to our constitution.
You will probably be getting a lot of pleas to pass these propositions from advocacy groups, especially education groups, saying that we must pass these or terrible things will happen. (I should point out that educators are actually quite split on the issue -- the California Teachers Association (CTA) is for 1A; the California Federation of Teachers and the California Faculty Association are against it.) We are indeed at a precipice but unfortunately with these temporary revenues (starting in two years!) comes a permanent spending cap on state services.
The League of Women Voters says that "this measure would only make things worse." I couldn't agree more. These ballot measures only fix a symptom rather than the fundamental underlying problem. Colorado implemented something like this in 1992 and has suffered greatly because of it.
In the weeks up to the Democratic Convention last week, the state legislators put tremendous pressure on delegates to get the Democratic Party to endorse these measures. Delegates have been deluged with emails, letters and circulars, and personal or robo-phone calls from our party leadership, begging us to endorse their compromise. But it didn't work. The grassroots know better. The party couldn't reach the required number of votes to show a party consensus on Proposition 1A and several others.
I am hoping that with the Republican party (except for Schwarzenegger) in opposition to 1A, and the Democratic Party not taking a position, that this measure and most of the other ones can be defeated, which just means that our representatives in Sacramento will have to continue to fight for a long-term solution. There will still be a lot of money spent on both sides, with most of the Pro-1A funding coming from the aforementioned CTA along with Schwarzenegger's PAC, the billionaire owner of Univision TV, and Chevron, for example. (Hmmm....)
So here is the breakdown on the propositions:
1A - A state spending cap. This is the poison pill that has to go along with 1B. If this passes we are in deep, deep trouble.
1B - Education funding. Looks good but here's the trick - it only goes into effect if Proposition 1A passes. So the Democratic Party came out in support of 1B, but as a symbolic gesture only. Some people are voting "yes" strategically so that if, worst-case, Proposition 1A were to pass, at least we'd get the short-term benefit. I'm inclined to "just say no" to the whole process.
1C - Sells bonds for education backed by lottery revenues. This one did get the nod from the Democratic Party though just barely, which I think is a shame. I agree with one opponent of this who said "balancing the budget on the backs of those who play the lottery is despicable and shameful."
1D, 1E - diverting funding for childhood services and mental health services. This has been described as robbing Peter to pay Paul. The amount of revenue this would save is trivial in any case.
1F - a time-waster initiative that will probably pass because it sounds like a good idea. This blocks pay raises for state officials if the budget is showing a deficit. Sounds like an OK idea on the surface, which is probably why it's doing so well in the polls. I really don't care one way or another if it passes. The Democratic party came out strongly in favor of it despite its many flaws for (as I see it) public relations purposes.
If you are interested in more, check out Calitics, a respected California political blog, which has a really good run-down of these measures, with much more analysis than I can muster.
http://tinyurl.com/calitics-1a
And here are the LWV's positions:
http://ca.lwv.org/action/prop0905/flyer.html
But feel free to reply here or talk to me on the phone if you have any thoughts or questions. I'm by no means the expert on this whole thing, but I talked to a lot of people on both sides of these ballot measures, so maybe I can help you come to a decision for your vote.
And as always, feel free to forward this missive along to your friends and neighbors.
-- Dan
On April 15, 2009
The City of Alameda Democratic Club voted Endorsements for the May 19 Special Election:
NO on Prop. 1A
NO on Prop. 1C
NO on Prop. 1D
NO on Prop. 1E
Neutral on Props. 1B and 1F
NO on Prop. 1A
NO on Prop. 1C
NO on Prop. 1D
NO on Prop. 1E
Neutral on Props. 1B and 1F
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Need Information?
League of Women Voters of Alameda — Special Election Pros and Cons, 7 p.m. April 14. The League's Voter Education Team will present the pros and cons of the measures on the May 19 ballot. Retired city financial officer Juelle Ann Boyer will also speak. All welcome. Alameda Free Library, 1550 Oak St. http://www.alameda.ca.lwvnet.org.
The Other Party's Answer to the Budget
From the article: "In the past century, there have been 145 recall attempts on California state officials, said Nicole Winger, spokesperson for California Secretary of State Debra Bowen. Just nine have qualified for a ballot and five have been successful in removing an official."
Assemblyman Adams defends vote after being served recall notice
Mediha Fejzagic DiMartino and Joe Nelson, Staff Writers
Posted: 04/09/2009 07:32:26 PM PDT
Assemblyman Adams defends vote after being served recall notice
Mediha Fejzagic DiMartino and Joe Nelson, Staff Writers
Posted: 04/09/2009 07:32:26 PM PDT
Some Union Views On The Special Election
AFSCME mixed on May ballot propositions
By John Howard | 04/09/09 12:00 AM PST
By John Howard | 04/09/09 12:00 AM PST
Special Election Funding Takes Shape
Here's an article discussing who is spending what to support or oppose the initiatives.
Teachers are biggest backers of budget measures
John Wildermuth, Chronicle Staff Writer
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Teachers are biggest backers of budget measures
John Wildermuth, Chronicle Staff Writer
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Monday, April 6, 2009
Who's For & Against Prop. 1A, et al
This is a link to an article at today's SF Gate discussing what groups are lining up for and against Prop. 1A.
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/04/06/MN4R16RSRO.DTL
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/04/06/MN4R16RSRO.DTL
Sunday, April 5, 2009
More Chair Swapping Politics
It seems Ellen Taucher (CD10) has been nominated to be the undersecretary for arms control and nonproliferation. This will open up yet another series of elected offices as various candidates seek to move up one rung.
State GOP hoping to recapture Assembly seat
By Steven Harmon
MediaNews Sacramento Bureau
Posted: 04/03/2009 02:53:17 PM PDT
State GOP hoping to recapture Assembly seat
By Steven Harmon
MediaNews Sacramento Bureau
Posted: 04/03/2009 02:53:17 PM PDT
Special Election News
A good read on the special election, proponents, opponents, and why disparate groups may vote the same way for different reasons.
Schwarzenegger returns to voters with ballot sequel to fix California's budget
By Mike Zapler
Mercury News Sacramento Bureau
Posted: 04/04/2009 04:02:00 PM PDT
Polling shows lukewarm voter support.
Poll: Special election measures a tough sell
Matthew Yi, Chronicle Sacramento Bureau
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Schwarzenegger returns to voters with ballot sequel to fix California's budget
By Mike Zapler
Mercury News Sacramento Bureau
Posted: 04/04/2009 04:02:00 PM PDT
Polling shows lukewarm voter support.
Poll: Special election measures a tough sell
Matthew Yi, Chronicle Sacramento Bureau
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Race to Replace Rep. Solis
This is an interesting read on the process to replace Rep. Solis who was drafted by the Obama administration to be Labor Secretary. Judy Chu, vice-chair of the board of equalization and long time democratic activist, seems to be a likely choice to me.
Multiple House Candidates File for California Special Election
By Rachel Kapochunas | April 1, 2009 12:29 PM
Multiple House Candidates File for California Special Election
By Rachel Kapochunas | April 1, 2009 12:29 PM
Sunday, March 29, 2009
CRP To Hold Executive Committee Meeting
CRP To Hold Executive Committee Meeting
April 18th, 2009 - Sacramento Convention Center
Posted: Thursday, March 26, 2009
CRP Chairman Ron Nehring Calls Executive Committee Meeting
Extraordinary Session Will Consider Positions On Upcoming Ballot Measures
SACRAMENTO - Citing the importance of the measures appearing on California's May 19th special election ballot, California Republican Party Chairman Ron Nehring today announced he will convene an extraordinary session of the party's Executive Committee on Saturday, April 18, 2009 at the Sacramento Convention Center for the purpose of considering party positions on these and other important propositions.
"Taxes in our state are too high because the lack of fiscal discipline in Sacramento has been too great, and voters will have the opportunity to directly impact that reality on May 19," said Chairman Nehring. "The measures slated for the special election will have profound implications for taxpayers and the economic climate here in California, and the voices of California Republicans need to be heard."
The Executive Committee is a body of as many as 100 California Republican Party leaders representing every region of the state. It is the only body within the party with the authority to take positions on ballot measures outside of a convention.
April 18th, 2009 - Sacramento Convention Center
Posted: Thursday, March 26, 2009
CRP Chairman Ron Nehring Calls Executive Committee Meeting
Extraordinary Session Will Consider Positions On Upcoming Ballot Measures
SACRAMENTO - Citing the importance of the measures appearing on California's May 19th special election ballot, California Republican Party Chairman Ron Nehring today announced he will convene an extraordinary session of the party's Executive Committee on Saturday, April 18, 2009 at the Sacramento Convention Center for the purpose of considering party positions on these and other important propositions.
"Taxes in our state are too high because the lack of fiscal discipline in Sacramento has been too great, and voters will have the opportunity to directly impact that reality on May 19," said Chairman Nehring. "The measures slated for the special election will have profound implications for taxpayers and the economic climate here in California, and the voices of California Republicans need to be heard."
The Executive Committee is a body of as many as 100 California Republican Party leaders representing every region of the state. It is the only body within the party with the authority to take positions on ballot measures outside of a convention.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Wellstone Club Meeting
The next Wellstone Club meeting will have Sen. Hancock and Assemblymembers Swanson and Skinner talking about the May Special Election. These meetings are open to everyone.
3-23-09 Thursday
6:45 to 9:30 PM (6Pm for pot luck)
Humanist Hall
390 27th St. (between Telegraph & Broadway)
Oakland
www.wellstoneclub.org
3-23-09 Thursday
6:45 to 9:30 PM (6Pm for pot luck)
Humanist Hall
390 27th St. (between Telegraph & Broadway)
Oakland
www.wellstoneclub.org
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Rep. Pete Stark on Stem Cell Research
I am excited to tell you about a long-awaited step forward in stem cell research. On Monday, President Obama lifted former President Bush's eight-year ban on funding for embryonic stem cell research. Now, scientists applying for federal grants will be able to use the thousands of stem cell lines that have been developed across the country, but were previously unavailable to those receiving federal funds.
This reversal removes a huge barrier to scientific advancement and will allow us to greatly increase our understanding of many terrible diseases. Federal funding for embryonic stem cell research will help open the door to cures and treatments for a host of diseases and conditions, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and diabetes.
I am also a co-sponsor of two bills that go further in promoting stem cell research. The Stem Cell Research Improvement Act (H.R. 872) will expand federal funding for stem cell research and tasks the National Institute of Health with developing a set of federal guidelines for this research. The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act (H.R. 873) will codify President Obama's actions and create strong ethical requirements for federally funded embryonic stem cell research.
I am encouraged by President Obama's reversal of the backward-minded Bush policies, and I look forward to working with him and my colleagues in Congress to support our nation's scientists and their research on stem cells.
Sincerely,
Pete
This reversal removes a huge barrier to scientific advancement and will allow us to greatly increase our understanding of many terrible diseases. Federal funding for embryonic stem cell research will help open the door to cures and treatments for a host of diseases and conditions, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and diabetes.
I am also a co-sponsor of two bills that go further in promoting stem cell research. The Stem Cell Research Improvement Act (H.R. 872) will expand federal funding for stem cell research and tasks the National Institute of Health with developing a set of federal guidelines for this research. The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act (H.R. 873) will codify President Obama's actions and create strong ethical requirements for federally funded embryonic stem cell research.
I am encouraged by President Obama's reversal of the backward-minded Bush policies, and I look forward to working with him and my colleagues in Congress to support our nation's scientists and their research on stem cells.
Sincerely,
Pete
Monday, March 9, 2009
Region 6 Meeting
The Region 6 Meeting of State Central Committee Members in advance of the April Convention is scheduled for 2:30 p.m., Saturday, March 14 at the Alameda County Labor Temple, 8400 Enterprise Way, Oakland.
The Labor Temple building is located near the Oakland Coliseum and Arena. From I-880, exit at Hegenberger Rd. and take Hegenberger east;turn right on Edes Ave., then left on Enterprise Way. The nearest BART is Oakland Coliseum.
TENTATIVE AGENDA
Welcome
State Party Candidates - Presentation and Q&A with candidates running for State Party office at the April Convention
Resolutions - Discussion and possible recommendation of resolutions to be adopted at the April Convention
Open Forum/Announcements
New delegate training - Presentation designed for those who have not attended a convention - anyone who wants to know more about the organization of the Democratic Party and what happens at Conventions is encouraged to stay for this part of the program
Contact Region 6 Director Royce Kelley if you have any questions, comments, or concerns.
The Labor Temple building is located near the Oakland Coliseum and Arena. From I-880, exit at Hegenberger Rd. and take Hegenberger east;turn right on Edes Ave., then left on Enterprise Way. The nearest BART is Oakland Coliseum.
TENTATIVE AGENDA
Welcome
State Party Candidates - Presentation and Q&A with candidates running for State Party office at the April Convention
Resolutions - Discussion and possible recommendation of resolutions to be adopted at the April Convention
Open Forum/Announcements
New delegate training - Presentation designed for those who have not attended a convention - anyone who wants to know more about the organization of the Democratic Party and what happens at Conventions is encouraged to stay for this part of the program
Contact Region 6 Director Royce Kelley if you have any questions, comments, or concerns.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
From Frank Matarrese
Dear Neighbors,
Here are some updates which are of interest to Alameda:
NEXT TOWN HALL MEETING
Monday March 16th
7 - 9 PM
Crosstown Coffee
High Street and Encinal Avenue
BUDGET
We still await a decision from Sacramento on how the State plans to address
their multi-billion dollar deficit. State actions will certainly impact
Alameda and we are taking steps to be ready. A budget workshop was held on
Saturday, February 7 and the city's financial policies and fiscal status
were discussed. Additionally, we were informed of a $2.1 million cash
deficit within the city's Internal Service Fund, related to workers
compensation. The Chief Financial Office presented some options to address
this shortfall, which were again discussed at the Council meeting of
February 17th. There was progress made on finding solutions for meeting our
obligations to current retired City public safety workers and recognition of
the need to upgrade the antiquated information technology system currently
in use by the city.
One of the policies at the budget workshop which generated discussion was
related to using volunteers, part time employees and outsourcing as tools to
balance the budget. Volunteers have provided enormous enhancement of
programs but we cannot and should not run core services with them. While
there may be times when contracting out is appropriate and/or part time
positions make sense, the policies as proposed looked too much like the
destructive pattern that we've all seen in American industry. I opposed the
proposed policy and the Council agreed that it should not be included. Our
policy should be:
-To manage city departments more efficiently with a "flattened" organization
which maintains those positions that directly provide the service and
supervisors, but consolidates top management
-To work or contract with other public agencies to pool resources for
services that can benefit by economy of scale
-To base outsourcing on specialty services which are infrequently needed or
not justifiable for the city to maintain
These issues will continue to be addressed as we begin to prepare for the
2009-2010 fiscal year.
SISTERCITY
I was privileged to attend a dinner on Sunday February 8th in honor of some
thirty municipal government administrators from our Sister City, Jiangyin
City, China. These civil servants have been sent here to study Public Policy
and Administration in a three month intensive course at Stanford University.
This gathering furthered the exchange between Alameda and Jiangyin City and
helped strengthen our ties and understanding with a far away community whose
challenges are not unlike our own. Special thanks is given to Dr. Stewart
Chen, past member of our Social Services and Human Relations Board and
founder of the Sister City Committee, and to Dr. Nancy Li, the driving force
behind the Sister City Committee, for arranging this beneficial event.
FORWARD LOOKING ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN
If you are interested an excellent example of good environmental design
applied to restoration of an old house and construction of a new house, stop
by the open house at 1533 Morton Street, February 26, 27 (3 - 6 pm) and 28
(11:30 am - 4 pm). See pictures and details at
http://1533mortonstreetalameda.shutterfly.com/ .
TOWN HALL AND FUTURE MEETINGS
I encourage you to attend my Town Hall Meetings and Council meetings during
these challenging times. Communication is vital to our efforts and your
ideas are welcome to help us make sound decisions for Alameda's future.
Please feel free to contact me at any time if I can be of further service.
Councilman Frank Matarrese
Here are some updates which are of interest to Alameda:
NEXT TOWN HALL MEETING
Monday March 16th
7 - 9 PM
Crosstown Coffee
High Street and Encinal Avenue
BUDGET
We still await a decision from Sacramento on how the State plans to address
their multi-billion dollar deficit. State actions will certainly impact
Alameda and we are taking steps to be ready. A budget workshop was held on
Saturday, February 7 and the city's financial policies and fiscal status
were discussed. Additionally, we were informed of a $2.1 million cash
deficit within the city's Internal Service Fund, related to workers
compensation. The Chief Financial Office presented some options to address
this shortfall, which were again discussed at the Council meeting of
February 17th. There was progress made on finding solutions for meeting our
obligations to current retired City public safety workers and recognition of
the need to upgrade the antiquated information technology system currently
in use by the city.
One of the policies at the budget workshop which generated discussion was
related to using volunteers, part time employees and outsourcing as tools to
balance the budget. Volunteers have provided enormous enhancement of
programs but we cannot and should not run core services with them. While
there may be times when contracting out is appropriate and/or part time
positions make sense, the policies as proposed looked too much like the
destructive pattern that we've all seen in American industry. I opposed the
proposed policy and the Council agreed that it should not be included. Our
policy should be:
-To manage city departments more efficiently with a "flattened" organization
which maintains those positions that directly provide the service and
supervisors, but consolidates top management
-To work or contract with other public agencies to pool resources for
services that can benefit by economy of scale
-To base outsourcing on specialty services which are infrequently needed or
not justifiable for the city to maintain
These issues will continue to be addressed as we begin to prepare for the
2009-2010 fiscal year.
SISTERCITY
I was privileged to attend a dinner on Sunday February 8th in honor of some
thirty municipal government administrators from our Sister City, Jiangyin
City, China. These civil servants have been sent here to study Public Policy
and Administration in a three month intensive course at Stanford University.
This gathering furthered the exchange between Alameda and Jiangyin City and
helped strengthen our ties and understanding with a far away community whose
challenges are not unlike our own. Special thanks is given to Dr. Stewart
Chen, past member of our Social Services and Human Relations Board and
founder of the Sister City Committee, and to Dr. Nancy Li, the driving force
behind the Sister City Committee, for arranging this beneficial event.
FORWARD LOOKING ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN
If you are interested an excellent example of good environmental design
applied to restoration of an old house and construction of a new house, stop
by the open house at 1533 Morton Street, February 26, 27 (3 - 6 pm) and 28
(11:30 am - 4 pm). See pictures and details at
http://1533mortonstreetalameda.shutterfly.com/ .
TOWN HALL AND FUTURE MEETINGS
I encourage you to attend my Town Hall Meetings and Council meetings during
these challenging times. Communication is vital to our efforts and your
ideas are welcome to help us make sound decisions for Alameda's future.
Please feel free to contact me at any time if I can be of further service.
Councilman Frank Matarrese
Oakland assemblyman loses chairmanship over vote
I have to say that I'm behind Sandre 100% on the way he voted.
http://www.contracostatimes.com/california/ci_11838307
Mark
http://www.contracostatimes.com/california/ci_11838307
Mark
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Friday, March 6, 2009
Convention Update
The CDC convention this April in Sacramento will entertain and pass resolutions. If any member of the club would like to submit a resolution, here's links to the resolution archive and rules:
http://www.cadem.org/site/c.jrLZK2PyHmF/b.981881/k.3EF8/Resolutions.htm
http://www.cadem.org/site/c.jrLZK2PyHmF/b.4127507/k.7745/Procedural_Rules_for_the_Resolutions_Committee.htm
Rules excerpt:
"All resolutions presented to the Committee for passage at an annual CDP Convention must previously have been adopted by a county Democratic central committee or a chartered Democratic organization, or must have been sponsored by 25 members of the Democratic State Central Committee (DSCC) or a majority of the voting DSCC members in attendance at a regional meeting as described in Article III, Section 4d of the CDP Bylaws."
Mark
http://www.cadem.org/site/c.jrLZK2PyHmF/b.981881/k.3EF8/Resolutions.htm
http://www.cadem.org/site/c.jrLZK2PyHmF/b.4127507/k.7745/Procedural_Rules_for_the_Resolutions_Committee.htm
Rules excerpt:
"All resolutions presented to the Committee for passage at an annual CDP Convention must previously have been adopted by a county Democratic central committee or a chartered Democratic organization, or must have been sponsored by 25 members of the Democratic State Central Committee (DSCC) or a majority of the voting DSCC members in attendance at a regional meeting as described in Article III, Section 4d of the CDP Bylaws."
Mark
Senator Hancock-My Thoughts on the Budget
Dear Friend:
After a long, frustrating and heart-breaking three month battle, the Governor recently signed a spending plan to address the financial crisis in California. As the actual prospect of insolvency was very real, it is with both relief but also apprehension that I am writing to you today.
The final agreement includes almost $42 billion in cuts, revenue increases and borrowing, including $11 billion to close the gap projected for the remainder of 2008-09 and close to $31 billion to balance the 2009-10 budget. Specifically, the agreement includes a combination of $14. 9 billion in cuts, $12.5 billion in temporary increased revenues, $7.9 billion in federal funding from the economic recovery bill signed into law by President Obama on February 17, $5.4 billion in new borrowing, and $957.2 million of additional cuts from the Governor’s line-item vetoes.
With the signing of this spending plan, we may have avoided the financial collapse of our state government, but we paid a great price. As your State Senator, I want to share with you with my personal reactions to the budget, and its implications for all Californians.
Beginning the New Year with an unprecedented $42 billion budget defect, California faced one of the most threatening financial crises in our state’s history. The problems we face are rooted to one fact: the 2/3rds Vote.
California is one of only three states that require a 2/3rds vote to pass a state budget. This is not how a democracy normally functions. Forty-seven other states, the United States Congress, and every city, county and school district in California pass budgets with a simple majority vote.
The 2/3rds vote requirement has proved fatally dysfunctional for California, making it impossible in recent years to pass budgets on time or with accountability.
It has allowed Republican legislators to hold California’s budget hostage. Rigidly opposed to any form of increased taxes, Republicans withheld their votes. Obtaining the three Republican votes in the Assembly and the three in the Senate that were necessary to pass the budget came at a great price: deep cuts to education and social safety services, weakening of major labor and environmental laws, tax cuts for business, additional borrowing, and putting constitutional amendments on the state ballot that have nothing to do with the state budget. Anything the Republicans cannot get done through legislation, they get done using the budget negotiations.
In the midst of an economic meltdown, this budget will unfortunately lead to a less equitable California. Instead of progressive tax increases that benefit the average Californian, regressive taxes and borrowing have been implemented. Increased sales tax and uniform surcharges on income tax for all brackets favor the wealthy. Massive layoffs of our teachers, health care providers, and social workers threaten the promise of California and its ability to protect its citizens. Things must change.
We Need Three Changes in the Budget Process
- A simple majority to pass the state budget. Let the majority party negotiate a budget and be held accountable for that budget, like the U.S. Congress and all levels of local government. That is why I have introduced a constitutional amendment, SCA 5, which will require simple majority as opposed to a 2/3rds majority for passing our state budget.
- California should consider a two-year budget in which the second year of the cycle is devoted to program oversight and any needed adjustments, caused by economic changes.
- Lastly, when the budget is adopted, it should contain five and ten year projections of expenses and income, so advanced planning can be done realistically and carefully.
In this hard time there is reason for hope. People are beginning to understand that our budget system is organized in an inefficient and undemocratic manner. We need changes in our current system to protect and provide opportunity for California’s citizens. If we are to save our great state we must work together to protect it.
If you want to know more about SCA 5, please let my office know.
Sincerely,
LONI HANCOCK
Senator
After a long, frustrating and heart-breaking three month battle, the Governor recently signed a spending plan to address the financial crisis in California. As the actual prospect of insolvency was very real, it is with both relief but also apprehension that I am writing to you today.
The final agreement includes almost $42 billion in cuts, revenue increases and borrowing, including $11 billion to close the gap projected for the remainder of 2008-09 and close to $31 billion to balance the 2009-10 budget. Specifically, the agreement includes a combination of $14. 9 billion in cuts, $12.5 billion in temporary increased revenues, $7.9 billion in federal funding from the economic recovery bill signed into law by President Obama on February 17, $5.4 billion in new borrowing, and $957.2 million of additional cuts from the Governor’s line-item vetoes.
With the signing of this spending plan, we may have avoided the financial collapse of our state government, but we paid a great price. As your State Senator, I want to share with you with my personal reactions to the budget, and its implications for all Californians.
Beginning the New Year with an unprecedented $42 billion budget defect, California faced one of the most threatening financial crises in our state’s history. The problems we face are rooted to one fact: the 2/3rds Vote.
California is one of only three states that require a 2/3rds vote to pass a state budget. This is not how a democracy normally functions. Forty-seven other states, the United States Congress, and every city, county and school district in California pass budgets with a simple majority vote.
The 2/3rds vote requirement has proved fatally dysfunctional for California, making it impossible in recent years to pass budgets on time or with accountability.
It has allowed Republican legislators to hold California’s budget hostage. Rigidly opposed to any form of increased taxes, Republicans withheld their votes. Obtaining the three Republican votes in the Assembly and the three in the Senate that were necessary to pass the budget came at a great price: deep cuts to education and social safety services, weakening of major labor and environmental laws, tax cuts for business, additional borrowing, and putting constitutional amendments on the state ballot that have nothing to do with the state budget. Anything the Republicans cannot get done through legislation, they get done using the budget negotiations.
In the midst of an economic meltdown, this budget will unfortunately lead to a less equitable California. Instead of progressive tax increases that benefit the average Californian, regressive taxes and borrowing have been implemented. Increased sales tax and uniform surcharges on income tax for all brackets favor the wealthy. Massive layoffs of our teachers, health care providers, and social workers threaten the promise of California and its ability to protect its citizens. Things must change.
We Need Three Changes in the Budget Process
- A simple majority to pass the state budget. Let the majority party negotiate a budget and be held accountable for that budget, like the U.S. Congress and all levels of local government. That is why I have introduced a constitutional amendment, SCA 5, which will require simple majority as opposed to a 2/3rds majority for passing our state budget.
- California should consider a two-year budget in which the second year of the cycle is devoted to program oversight and any needed adjustments, caused by economic changes.
- Lastly, when the budget is adopted, it should contain five and ten year projections of expenses and income, so advanced planning can be done realistically and carefully.
In this hard time there is reason for hope. People are beginning to understand that our budget system is organized in an inefficient and undemocratic manner. We need changes in our current system to protect and provide opportunity for California’s citizens. If we are to save our great state we must work together to protect it.
If you want to know more about SCA 5, please let my office know.
Sincerely,
LONI HANCOCK
Senator
Sandre Swanson Open House
March 20, 2009
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm Reception and Mixer
Please feel free to ask our staff for a tour of the office
Elihu M. Harris State Building Atrium
1515 Clay Street, Oakland, CA 94612
Meet your state representatives and their staff, learn about State programs and services and celebrate the arrival of a new season.
Please RSVP to: Iesha Powell (510) 286 -1670 or email.
Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be served.
(title is clickable...)
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm Reception and Mixer
Please feel free to ask our staff for a tour of the office
Elihu M. Harris State Building Atrium
1515 Clay Street, Oakland, CA 94612
Meet your state representatives and their staff, learn about State programs and services and celebrate the arrival of a new season.
Please RSVP to: Iesha Powell (510) 286 -1670 or email.
Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be served.
(title is clickable...)
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Hot Topics for March
Hi folks! This is my first column and so as to start out on the right foot (or would that be left foot?) I want to try to begin outlining what’s before us and how we might act or react to the various issues. There is a lot going on just now so I’ll take each item in order of immediacy.
The first item concerns our elected officials and how we feel about how well they perform at their jobs. There is a new organization called Accountability Now Pac which will attempt to hold our office holder’s “feet to the fire” primarily by threatening to put a new candidate against them in a coming primary.
A little less harsh is a new program organized by our state party’s Progressive Caucus which is tracking legislation in our state and which will attempt to lobby, persuade, and/or coerce elected officials to vote one way or the other on various legislation. I am the local liaison for this process. First on our plate is health care reform within the state. Mark Leno is carrying a new version of the single payer bill from committee to the senate. So, the point in bring all of this up, is whether we’d like to do something similar? We could focus on city and/or county issues?
Next, we have the coming CDC convention in Sacramento from April 24 to 26. I will be attending with fellow 16th AD delegate Alice Freid, Rob Bonta (Mary Hayashi appointee), Barbara Kahn and Jim Oddie (Pete Stark appointees), and Dan Wood (Sandre Swanson appointee). You can see that we are well represented. If any member of the club would like to submit a resolution for the convention, please contact me for the proper format and process. Also, the party is calling for volunteers and you can also go as an observer (contact me for a form). Cost is $120 (plus meals if desired). Of course, the caucuses are always open to all democrats and you may join any state party caucus.
The May 19th ballot will have at least 7 propositions. We need to start looking at the various initiatives and the club will address this need. Look here for the propositions.
Man, what a full plate. Yet, I would ask every club member to think about joining in with the greening of Chipman School. Ask Barbara for advice. And, i almost forgot that the county registrar of voters is looking for precinct workers for May. Go here to volunteer
You Democrats are awesome!
Mark
Issues Chair ACDC
mbriggs13@gmail.com
The first item concerns our elected officials and how we feel about how well they perform at their jobs. There is a new organization called Accountability Now Pac which will attempt to hold our office holder’s “feet to the fire” primarily by threatening to put a new candidate against them in a coming primary.
A little less harsh is a new program organized by our state party’s Progressive Caucus which is tracking legislation in our state and which will attempt to lobby, persuade, and/or coerce elected officials to vote one way or the other on various legislation. I am the local liaison for this process. First on our plate is health care reform within the state. Mark Leno is carrying a new version of the single payer bill from committee to the senate. So, the point in bring all of this up, is whether we’d like to do something similar? We could focus on city and/or county issues?
Next, we have the coming CDC convention in Sacramento from April 24 to 26. I will be attending with fellow 16th AD delegate Alice Freid, Rob Bonta (Mary Hayashi appointee), Barbara Kahn and Jim Oddie (Pete Stark appointees), and Dan Wood (Sandre Swanson appointee). You can see that we are well represented. If any member of the club would like to submit a resolution for the convention, please contact me for the proper format and process. Also, the party is calling for volunteers and you can also go as an observer (contact me for a form). Cost is $120 (plus meals if desired). Of course, the caucuses are always open to all democrats and you may join any state party caucus.
The May 19th ballot will have at least 7 propositions. We need to start looking at the various initiatives and the club will address this need. Look here for the propositions.
Man, what a full plate. Yet, I would ask every club member to think about joining in with the greening of Chipman School. Ask Barbara for advice. And, i almost forgot that the county registrar of voters is looking for precinct workers for May. Go here to volunteer
You Democrats are awesome!
Mark
Issues Chair ACDC
mbriggs13@gmail.com
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Monday, February 23, 2009
Your Volunteer Budget
As we begin to go forward politically this year, I thought it would be useful to talk a little about volunteer budgets. Some of us, namely me, are hoping that we can help individuals within the club and our community find ways to be more active politically. But from my experience I know that there is a place you can get to where you find that you've just taken on too much, and if you do not cut something out of your schedule your head might actually explode. So, with this in mind, let's talk about volunteering.
The first thing I always ask myself is: can I actually do the thing I'm being asked to do? Some people just don't like calling voters, or knocking on doors, but are more than happy filing in a campaign office. Don't try to do things that you find boring or otherwise undesirable. From another perspective, assess what you like to do and then see if there's an activity within the club that calls for that skill. If you do what you like to do, and have fun doing it, your work will have a higher quality output and you will be able to see the positive results over time.
The next step is to determine how much time you can actually volunteer. Think in terms no less than a week at a time, but monthly is actually better. If I can give four hours a month, then I can do an hour a week, two hours every other week, of four hours once a month. Don't try to exceed your budget until you determine that it won't detract from the other aspects of your real life.
Oh, yea, your real life. Well, first of all, your real life always comes first. The thing is to consider your real life needs and then see if there's time left over for volunteering. But, I'll bet you've got an hour here and an hour there to chip in and just haven't realized it yet. Once you start volunteering, and it becomes a normal part of your life, you'll find that volunteering is easily done and would be missed if not so.
Recently I found myself hitting the volunteer ceiling. One more thing and that's it, I quit. Well, we just have to take a step back and reconfigure. Sometimes I notice that I just haven't designed that way that my various volunteer jobs fit together. Often a single task goes in many directions and the work can be consolidated once discovered. Too confusing? Look for duplications in your work and streamline the process in order to have less actual work to do. Ok.
This post isn't meant to be a text book on this subject, but instead to open the discussion. I'll bring this topic back every so many months and together we can discover more.
Mark
The first thing I always ask myself is: can I actually do the thing I'm being asked to do? Some people just don't like calling voters, or knocking on doors, but are more than happy filing in a campaign office. Don't try to do things that you find boring or otherwise undesirable. From another perspective, assess what you like to do and then see if there's an activity within the club that calls for that skill. If you do what you like to do, and have fun doing it, your work will have a higher quality output and you will be able to see the positive results over time.
The next step is to determine how much time you can actually volunteer. Think in terms no less than a week at a time, but monthly is actually better. If I can give four hours a month, then I can do an hour a week, two hours every other week, of four hours once a month. Don't try to exceed your budget until you determine that it won't detract from the other aspects of your real life.
Oh, yea, your real life. Well, first of all, your real life always comes first. The thing is to consider your real life needs and then see if there's time left over for volunteering. But, I'll bet you've got an hour here and an hour there to chip in and just haven't realized it yet. Once you start volunteering, and it becomes a normal part of your life, you'll find that volunteering is easily done and would be missed if not so.
Recently I found myself hitting the volunteer ceiling. One more thing and that's it, I quit. Well, we just have to take a step back and reconfigure. Sometimes I notice that I just haven't designed that way that my various volunteer jobs fit together. Often a single task goes in many directions and the work can be consolidated once discovered. Too confusing? Look for duplications in your work and streamline the process in order to have less actual work to do. Ok.
This post isn't meant to be a text book on this subject, but instead to open the discussion. I'll bring this topic back every so many months and together we can discover more.
Mark
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