|
Statement from Rep. Kirk Pearson on
recommendation to keep Monroe Corrections Complex open
Lawmaker remains concerned
about balancing budget
with critical public safety cuts
Rep. Kirk Pearson,
R-Monroe, made the following statement regarding the state Office of
Financial Management's
announcement
outlining proposed reductions and consolidation of facilities operated
by the Department of Corrections (DOC):
"I was pleased to see the Monroe Correctional Complex may
remain open under draft recommendations made by an outside contractor,
who was hired by the state to review DOC facilities as part of the
budget-cutting exercise. What this finding tells me is Monroe has great
services for inmates and patients, and strong community and faith-based
support. I look forward to working to ensure any transfers to Monroe
from DOC facilities that would be closed are done smoothly and in a way
that protects the public.
"While this is good news for our community, I remain
concerned that budget writers and the governor are putting such a strong
emphasis on balancing the budget on the backs of victims and innocent
citizens. State leaders must make public safety one of the top
priorities in the budget. I will continue to make this case in the 2010
legislative session."
The final recommendations for DOC reductions will be
included in a report due Nov. 1.
# # #
For more information, contact:
Bobbi Cussins, Public Information Officer: (360) 786-7252
|