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Stockton Record- January 13, 2006
Budget adds up for Valley Fritz Grupe's influence with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger appears to be growing.
Let's hope so.
When Schwarzenegger announced a $222.6 billion plan to rebuild the state's infrastructure on Jan. 5, it was a good sign for San Joaquin County.
When he presented his $125.6 billion 2006-07 budget on Tuesday, it was an even better indicator.
He seems to recognize the San Joaquin Valley needs a substantial investment of public funds.
Grupe, a successful Stockton developer, might be helping develop new awareness in Sacramento.
In September, Schwarzenegger chose Grupe as co-chairman of the newly formed California Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley.
The 26-member group was asked to develop ways to address the economic needs of the state's fastest-growing region.
The new state budget proposal pays attention to some Valley priorities by including:
» Extra funds for low-performing schools, some in Stockton.
» $18 million more for Delta flood-control efforts.
» $12.5 million more to combat gangs and methamphetamine, severe problems in the county.
» $2 million for San Joaquin Delta College.
» More money for judges in fast-growing counties like San Joaquin.
» $1.5 million to study restoration of the San Joaquin River.
There are lots of reasons why the county would benefit from this budget, but let's not assume lawmakers are in tune with Schwarzenegger's thinking.
Legislative debate on the budget is expected to begin next week. There'll be the usual Southern California forces trying to hog most of the state spending.
San Joaquin County's six-member legislative delegation can't allow that to happen. Its members must get together in a bipartisan way with other Valley legislators to support budget items that will most benefit the region.
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