Another case of greedy state legislatures de-funding higher education. What a penny-wise pound-foolish choice!
I'm a big supporter of California colleges and universities having used them myself as have several members of my extended family. The cost to us all was minimum being CA residents. However even if tuition rate were to be doubled CA schools would still be a bargain.
Meanwhile, on the 405 "expansion" project right in my backyard, Caltrans has just jackhammered about 1/4 mile of retaining wall that had just been set about 6 months ago. Obviously some sort of error that went undetected as they poured the concrete. Tax dollars down the drain, thereby increasing cuts to areas like colleges. Of course, we never hear about this on the news. I'm sure the state has plenty of money...what it lacks are priorities. The pockets of politicians and bureaucrats will always take precedence over trivial issues such as higher education, law enforcement and emergency services.
(Off-topic) Egh, I can't stand CalTrans... My wife and I made up their slogan: CalTrans - "We're doing our part to pave the way to Hell; come for the ride."
Totally agree with you. After all how else they can provide free education to illegal immigrants and protect state employee pensions. There are areas were they could cut spending but instead they do this. Californians tend to elect worthless leadership.
I do not know the details of this rework but concrete occasionally has to be replaced when test samples do not meet requirements. I read in a quality or reliability journal recently that this happened on a pier of new SF Bay Bridge pier. I have long forgotten my concrete courses in school but I recall that the water in the concrete mix (along with any additives) have to form the correct crystal properties over the months following pouring. Contractors include a factor for rework in their estimates if they are smart.
It sounds like its collapsing under its own weight. If it does, there will be ample opportunity for the private sector and colleges in other states to educate Californians. I just hope the Feds don't use my tax money to bail out a state that can't keep its budget in order.
Not being from California I can't comment directly, but I have my doubts that there is no more fat to cut. If they would allow someone from the private sector who has run a large business of the same size and have been successful, I imagine they could find things to cut.
Raygun's tenure ended in 1975. Are you saying that none of the Govenors since then, except for Arnie had any impact on California? Just Reagan and Ahnold. Really?
Not saying rhat the other governors didn't have any effect, just that Raygun and Ahnold were the two that came to mind.