Divvy up funds or divide the state?

Re “We deserve more,” editorial Nov. 7

The Times’ editorial seeking a greater share of bond money for our region’s goods movement needs makes important points. Southern California continues not only to be the conduit for 85% of the imports coming into our state, we continue to grow as a strategic hub for world trade. But your advocacy for an automatic 85% cut of the funding is typical of cynical, special-interest politics instead of intelligent planning for our future.

We shouldn’t fund state projects based on who pays the taxes, who casts the votes or who bears the burden. We should fund projects that actually benefit the entire state. Southern California must make a persuasive case that our proposed investments in speeding trade-goods movement is what’s best for all of California, not just rely on political muscle or “we get ours” formulas. In the global economy, the benefits and effects of the movement of goods are a key part of a much larger balance of land use, transportation and environment. Investing $20 billion in one-time bond financing is too important to be “earmarked” or carved up like pork.

Rick Cole

City manager

Ventura

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The infuriating news that Sacramento (once again) is shortchanging Southern California in transportation funds comes as no surprise. Perhaps it is time to consider a divorce. California, with almost 40 million residents, has enough people to form 10 states, but realistically two or three are possible: North and South California, and perhaps Central California. Most Southern Californians would be within an easy drive of a new, centrally located state capital. State funds would be spent locally, and the citizens would be closer and better able to voice their opinions to their representatives. The two (or more) Californias would increase their presence in Washington.

Dividing states is difficult but not impossible. West Virginia was carved out of Virginia; Maine out of Massachusetts. It is long overdue for Northern and Southern California to amicably divorce. It is time to bring state government and tax funds closer to the people who pay the bills.

Al Nyberg

Vista, Calif.