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Governor Daniels: "Blaming Me Isn't Going To Bring Money To The Hoosier State"

By Brien McElhatten
June 18, 2010 Updated Mar 17, 2010 at 9:35 PM EST

NORTH MANCHESTER, Ind. (Indiana's NewsCenter) - Governor Daniels is fighting back against criticism from public education officials.

Speaking to the media at a news conference on Wednesday, the Governor defended his decision to cut $300 million in K-12 education in December.

That move has prompted attacks from many school officials across the state. In Fort Wayne, FWCS Board President Mark GiaQuinta has been an outspoken critic of the Governor's decision, blaming him for a $15 million dollar budget hole brought on by the statewide education cut and the now permanent property tax relief act.

But Daniels insists the cuts were the right move.

"It was the only decision," said the Governor. "Those who would demand more money are asking for a tax increase. That's the only other choice. I know their job is not an easy one, but attacking me isn't going to bring money to the Hoosier State. What they're saying is we want even more tax money from people who make less than we do and I don't think that's fair."

School officials say the $300 million dollar decision was made in the middle of the school year, giving them no time to plan accordingly. Now districts across the state are struggling to cut millions from their budgets.

Fort Wayne Community Schools may lose two buildings in the fall. Board members will decide on March 22nd whether to close Elmhurst High School and Pleasant Center Elementary. Closing the schools could save the district about $2 million, but that leaves administrators with another $13 million to account for. Next year, the picture doesn't look any better.

State revenue forecasts are expected to decline further next year, while the Governor says cutting education is always his "last resort," he may have to make more "tough calls" to keep the state in the black.



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