In 2011, the state handed out $13 million to a losing construction bidder for reasons never clearly explained. In 2012, the state filed a lawsuit to gain federal lands — the cost of litigation exceeded $3 million. In 2013, the state hired outside help at the cost of $2 million to fight gay marriage while at the same time considering a 40 percent pay raise for the governor and other state officials already making six figures.
When concerns over education funding, clean air or health care are brought forward we are told, “Sorry, despite being priorities, there just isn't any money.” Yet, apparently, our state has endless amounts of taxpayer dollars for handouts to losing bidders, frivolous lawsuits and outrageous pay increases. For a state that claims to be fiscally responsible and family friendly, we sure do have an interesting way of expressing it.
Dane Henderson
Orem