Category Archives: Government Reform

Taking State Parks off the State’s Books

When Governor McDonnell’s Commission on Government Reform and Restructuring begins its work Virginia State Parks should be among the many state services put under the microscope. Continue reading

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Taxes, Fees and the Virginia Budget Process

The General Assembly adjourned the 2010 Regular Session on March 14th, 2010, after only a one day extension. Budget Conferees and Leaders claimed victory by closing the $4.2 billion revenue shortfall facing the Commonwealth without a tax increase. Of course, the definition of a fee or tax seems to be in the eye of the beholder. Regardless, anyone involved in the budget process will admit that it is complicated, insular and growing in unintended consequences due to the limited time available for evaluation and debate. Continue reading

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Getting Government Out of the Parking Business

Chicago’s groundbreaking parking asset leases inspire imitators. Any local takers? Continue reading

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Reducing the State Budget by $2 Billion – It Can be Done

The General Assembly is struggling with how to close another $2 billion in the next two year budget. Hopefully they are also concerned about how to avoid these huge problems in the future. Continue reading

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Laissez Les Bon Reforms Roulez – Government reform, Louisiana-style

Anytime you see a multi-billion dollar budget deficit materialize in a state, it’s generally a good sign that it’s time for government downsizing. State policymakers should not aim low by setting their sights on merely rebalancing the budget; rather, they should put into place major budget and fiscal reforms. Continue reading

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