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In introducing his proposed budget for the coming fiscal year, Governor Jon Huntsman hit the proverbial nail on the head:
"Unprecedented increases in jobs, revenues, and population throughout 2006," he wrote, "call for unprecedented support of education, transportation, and enhancing the quality of life of all Utahns."
Indeed, times are good. Very good! The economy, quite simply, is booming. "We are given the opportunity," as the governor said, "to attend to our greatest needs."
At the top of the list is education.
Some in the legislature may balk at the significant increase in education spending the governor is recommending, but if the state doesn't do it now when the money is available, then when, if ever, will strides be taken to more effectively meet the needs of Utah's school children?
Next on the list is transportation.
What better way to prepare for accelerating population growth than to direct one-time money available now to preventing gridlock down the road.
Other elements in the governor's proposed budget also reflect the opportunities to enhance the quality of life in Utah - tax reform, catching up on infrastructure growth and repairs, and improving efficiency in government.
Yes, the times are good and the budget outlook is rosy. KSL hopes lawmakers who control the purse strings will be as realistic as the governor.
