Poochigian on Budget Cuts
There is no question that the state’s fiscal turmoil affects all citizens and compounds the difficulties we must tackle in Fresno County. But, county government must live within its means. Because the county delivers so many program services mandated or supported by the state and federal government, everything from education to transportation to social services will surely be adversely affected by choices made in Sacramento.
The duty of a county supervisor is to recognize this reality and approach the situation head-on without making excuses. We must be informed and well-prepared to fight to assure that we are treated equitably and that the budget axe isn’t wielded indiscriminately without regard to important priorities, etc. Our success depends on battling powerful interests in other regions who, left to their own devices, could do harm to our whole region. I will work cooperatively with our state representatives in our common cause for fair treatment and sound policies from Sacramento.