Missouri Gov. Holden decries proposed 15 percent state cut
Posted on: Saturday, 8 March 2003, 06:00 CST
Missouri Gov. Holden decries proposed 15 percent state cut
source: Associated Press Science News
COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Though his visit to the University of Missouri campus was in recognition of Life Sciences Week, Gov. Bob Holden used the occasion to criticize a consultant's report calling for an across-the-board 15 percent cut to the state government. Such a cut could mean up to $30 million cut from the UM system, Holden said in a speech before students and faculty Thursday morning.
"I do not want to make any additional cuts in education," Holden said. "That means higher education. That means elementary education and secondary education."
The report was compiled by analyst Jim Moody, who served as state budget director under former Gov. John Ashcroft. Though the report targeted education funds as a necessary remedy to declining state revenues, Holden said he believes education cannot afford further cuts.
"Education is not a place we will continue to make cuts," Holden said.
UM system officials could not be reached for comment regarding the report.
Holden extolled his "Fair Share Budget Plan," saying it would prevent any further cuts from education.
"I have put every bit of my political capital on the line to see that we've addressed the spending problem," Holden said.
UM system spokesman Joe Moore had no comment about the report.
Holden also spoke extensively of the importance of life sciences to both MU and the state.
Following a tour of the incomplete Life Sciences Center, Holden promoted the "knowledge-based economy" the center might represent.
Holden said he is hoping the new facility and a steady flow of funding will help propel the life sciences department above other research universities.
"I want Missouri to lead the Midwest," Holden said.
The Life Sciences Center came with a price tag of a little more than $60 million.
Half of those funds were provided by the federal government and MU is still waiting for matching funding from the state level.
"The bills will be coming for the state very soon," said Michael Chippendale, interim director of MU life sciences.
Jane Phillips, director of development for life sciences, said she is confident there will be no problems with the appropriations, even amid the budget crisis.
"Everything Gov. Holden has said has supported his commitment to give matching funds to the federal money," Phillips said. "He hasn't given us any reason to doubt his commitment."
Holden said that although the state budget is tight, his belief that strong funding must continue for the life sciences program is firm.
"I am committed to seeing this through," Holden said.
(C) 2002 The Maneater via U-WIRE
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