North Carolina is looking to deal with a $3.5-4 billion deficit in the state budget this year. This shortfall of funding will most likely be felt across the state, in education and across each department.
At last weeks Leadership North Carolina State of the State Forum, I learned that NC’s education system is one of the main drivers for the states economic development. If we’re not stragetic about what we cut in education, it could hurt the entire state in the long-term.
This week, the 2011-2012 biennium of the North Carolina General Assembly will convene on January 26, 2011. We decided to catch up with NC House District 38 representative Deborah Ross to find out what we could expect from the upcoming session. It’s a long session because it’s an odd-numbered year.
Here is an interview with Representative Ross on the upcoming legislative session:
1) The North Carolina State budget seems to be a hot topic, what can we expect from the Legislative session this year?
The Republican majority has said that they plan to cut nearly $3.7 billion from our $19 billion budget and will allow the temporary tax increases to expire. They also have said that the cuts will affect state employee and teacher jobs.
2) What’s the latest on the Dorothea Dix property?
There is an opportunity this session to file a bill to keep Dorothea Dix open. I plan to file a bill to do so and push hard for it. The Secretary of DHHS is evaluating the use of the property and the needs of the more than 1,000 DHHS employees who work there. When he finishes his evaluation the future of the buildings and the property will be considered.
I do not support adding buildings to open space that is on the property and think there are other places where the state can build office buildings, e.g. Garner Road. I believe the open space should be preserved for public use.
3) Any updates on what’s happening with the Wake County School System in
District 38?
The school system is in a state of flux. I represent downtown Raleigh, part of Southeast Raleigh, Southwest Raleigh, and part of Garner. These areas each have different needs and concerns. I do my best to advocate for the best possible education for all of the children in my district and ensure adequate state funding.
4) Is there anything else the folks in South West Raleigh should know about?
I will continue to advocate for your interests within state government. I also will continue to be accessible in the district. Please feel free to contact me by email, phone or come by my office at the legislature.