Clearing State’s Debts

I must disagree with the two Feb. 1 editorials concerning the Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger bond measure and the rail transportation bond. Rather than voting yes on the first and delaying a vote on the second, I think the state’s citizens would be better served by voting no to refinance the debt and yes on a massive public works project. What better way to dramatically affect the lives of many Californians than by undertaking such a project?

The benefits would be massive. In addition to the reduction in traffic at L.A. airports (because people would take the train north), companies that contracted on the job would generate enormous revenue that would yield more tax dollars for the state, and jobs would be created. Let’s use government to do something that would benefit California today and tomorrow rather than saddle our children with massive debt.

Ian Duckles

Long Beach

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The governor and the jingle-jangle man of long ago have a lot in common. Both are selling a cure-all remedy that promises to solve the state’s problems. They have given in to private interests, lobbyists, corporations and others offering contributions for their reelection. They sold their souls by spending and borrowing every dollar they could find. Now they come to us with more promises of better times if we just give them another chance. Just $15 billion plus another $15 billion in interest and all will be well.

Institute budget cuts across the board for state and county governments, a freeze on hiring, promotions, pay increases and management bonuses. There is so much waste -- cell phones, credit cards, leased vehicles and midweek business meetings at resorts, to name a few examples. Taxpayers don’t buy this propaganda. Vote no on Propositions 57 and 58.

Joe Chavez

Mission Viejo

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I can’t disagree more with your take on Proposition 57. This is more of the same -- borrow and spend and forget about fiscal responsibility. Schwarzenegger promised to change business as usual but has continued the same misguided policies as his predecessors. When I see some sound fiscal policy I will be glad to support another bond issue. Until that time my advice to anyone contemplating a vote on Proposition 57 is to just say no!

Our fiscal situation was created and is being maintained by misguided policy and lack of civic leadership. More money will not improve either of these ills.

George Broyles

Claremont