Part One
Last Monday, Ohio Governor John Kasich announced the outlines of his proposed budget. 2 years ago, the theme was deep cuts. In the face of a $800 million deficit, the governor sites that the legislature adopted a balanced budget with no new taxes, helping to spur job growth.
The rainy day fund has been restored and now at $482 million. His new proposal, which he refers to as Ohio's Jobs Budget 2.0, no longer has budget cuts as the top line, but tax reform. The detailed budget has yet to be released, but the broad outline points to some interesting developments.
To discuss Governor Kasich's proposed budget from several different angles, I am joined this morning by Greg Hartmann, a member of the Hamilton County Commission. Hartmann is a Republican and an attorney by training.
Also joining me is Connie Pillich, a member of the Ohio General Assembly representing the 28th district that stretches across the northern part of Hamilton County. Pillich is a Democrat and an attorney with the firm of Webb-Pillich.
Part Two
A slight change of plans. The guests I had scheduled for part 2 were not able to be here, so I called in a favor with a great friend, who represents a wonderful organization, The Freestore Foodbank. I am joined now by Kurt Reiber, the President and CEO of The Freestore Foodbank. Kurst has been in his position for about a year and a half after a career in banking.
