Two mayors want special session on budget deficit
St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman and Wadena Mayor Wayne Wolden are calling for a special legislative session to address the projected $1.2 billion deficit in the state's current two-year budget.
The two mayors issued a news release today, just two days after state officials detailed the shortfall. Gov. Tim Pawlenty said this week that he might have to unallot a portion of the December local government aid payments. That's a move the mayors want to avoid.
"Minnesota cities are so close to the financial edge that any reduction in the December funding will spell disaster in the form of closed libraries, deeper cuts to police and fire protection and a sharp reduction in critical services, like winter snowplowing," Coleman and Wolden wrote. "This is one of the most challenging times Minnesota has ever faced, with high unemployment and virtually no economic growth. Another hit to cities will cripple our communities and the effects will only worsen the state's economy. A special session is the only reasonable, rational and responsible option. There has never been a greater time for state leaders to drop political slogans and petty disagreements and come together to address the long-term financial needs of our state."
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