Idaho Gov. Butch Otter
Idaho Governor Butch Otter was in Lewiston Wednesday for a Chamber of Commerce luncheon and to help dedicate the new mural on the city library. The Republican has been busy meeting with community leaders across the state in efforts to explain the recent forecast that shows a 6.8 percent drop in revenue. The Governor has warned of further spending cuts across the board to help plug a projected $151 million shortfall.
Otter says while budget cuts and holdbacks may be necessary, its too soon to know where or how much trimming might be required.
Idaho Gov. Butch Otter comments
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The state has an education rainy day fund as well as some general fund surplus money available. But the governor is hesitant to empty those reserves while the recession lingers.
Otter continues
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The governor will meet with top state Republicans Friday and top Democrats next week to gain input on the best ways the state can address the revenue shortfall.
