This February has got to go down in history as the mildest ever. The daffodils and lilies are coming out of the ground with no regard for a coming freeze and snowfall. We live with the weather provided, but this season is very odd.
Recently, the House Republican road funding plan passed out of the Indiana House of Representatives with a vote of 61-36. The Senate is now able to consider the plan and amend it as they see fit. The current bill would raise the gasoline and diesel user fee taxes 10 cents per gallon. These user fees have not been adjusted since 2003 and 1988, respectively. There would also be a $15 registration fee on all vehicles with an engine. Revenue from that fee, which is approximately $90 million, would fund the Community Crossings grant program for local road projects. This program was started last year and was extremely popular. Additionally, tolling would be studied by INDOT, to see if this is a viable funding option. There are advocates of tolling some Hoosier interstates, so additional lanes can be added and the surface maintained. Tolls would not be a burden placed solely on Hoosiers, but would be borne by out-of-state traffic passing through Indiana – the Crossroads of America.
Critics of this bill – and yes, I’ve heard from them – say that they pay enough taxes already. To me, that is not a point to argue. I would like to discuss their plan to maintain our infrastructure going forward. Too many local roads and bridges are in poor condition. Without a plan of action for repair and improvement, the issue will only get worse. Mayors and commissioners are asked to manage local roads and bridges with almost no resources for infrastructure. It is being suggested that we cut waste and fraud in government spending. However, we are already on a tight budget to make sure Indiana continues to operate within its means. About 64 percent of the current budget goes to education funding, so if we were to make budget cuts, where would we make them? We certainly don’t want to take away from our students and schools. Back in 2004, under Gov. Mitch Daniels, Indiana had 35,000 employees. That number has been cut to 28,000. We are at or approaching a minimum level to provide needed services for the state. So, if you have a better program than House Bill 1002, let’s hear it – but you need to hurry up!
Outside of the Statehouse, there is a lot to take note of.
Saturday, ahead of the Purdue basketball game, I was able to present a check to the Helping Hands of Miami County for $2,414.79 from collections for the Miller’s Merry Manor Annual King and Queen contest. I enjoy the event because it is all local. The money is raised and used locally, and it is truly a great program!
Thanks to all who recognized Buddy and his Facebook fame. We are trying to contain his ego. I’m joking, of course. Buddy is simply the greatest, happiest dog ever.
On our way to church Sunday morning, we were a quarter mile west of our home, and, suddenly, a large bird flew from the field. I slammed on the breaks when I saw the brilliant, large white tail and recognized that a bald eagle was feasting on a rabbit. These magnificent creatures have made a tremendous comeback in our area, and I want to thank DNR for their part in the revival of the eagle population. It is more than an observation to view an eagle; it stirs your sensibilities.
My heart breaks for the families and citizens of Delphi and Carroll County. The deaths of the two young girls tests the structure of the community. Nothing but questions arise as the people of Delphi examine the circumstances. Nonetheless, I am heartened to see the community rallying together, particularly in support of the bereaved families. I wish everyone Godspeed as this investigation continues.
More later,
Bill
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Rep. Bill Friend (R-Macy) represents House District 23,
which includes portions of Cass, Fulton and Miami counties.
A high-resolution photo of Friend can be downloaded by clicking here.
