Ca. Governor Wants to Close Revenue Generating State Parks
California's Governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger, will begin cutting the core funding for state parks in half on July 1st, then remove them completely within 12 months. That means most state parks in Ca will have to be closed, possibly including the extremely popular Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area.
Why is this such a bad idea? Because it will ultimately cost the State money. Let me explain. First of all, the money from the General Fund that goes to the state parks is only a fraction of a percent (1/10%) of the whole budget. With that in mind, consider that state parks generate revenue, they do not consume it. In other words, they make money, not spend money.
Every dollar that California spends to fund the state parks earns about $2.35 in economic "stimulation" for the surrounding communities. With nearly a hundred million visitors expected to visit state parks this year, and the potential cutting of $150 million in funding, the state stands to lose $350 million in revenue.
If this sounds backwards to you, you're not alone. I just can't see the logic in cutting spending on something that generates that kind of return. Especially in the tough times we're in now.
If this plan goes through, it will backfire on the state of California. California is the state it is because of all the tourists that come out and use these parks.
I agree, Stan. Not only will the state lose based on revenue, but also the people that use the parks get one of the more cost-effective vacations available in these tough times taken away from them.
The California State Parks were started in the mid 1850s. It is visited by both state, national, and international visitors. They are profitable. Its the Pacific Ocean, the Desert, the Mountains, the Redwoods, The Desert, Historical Sites, Bodie Ghost Town, Native American Museums, Railroad Museums, Campgrounds, ….and impacting all. They are profitable. This is a bad plan by the governor – he should be focusing on the real issues, not taking family time and reunions and picnic time and swimming and fishing time from us.
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/3/save-california-state-parks-from-closure