My state rep is Ronald Mariano (D: Quincy). I inquired with his office about how he voted on the diversion of sportsmen's funds to the general fund. One of his aids got back to me and our conversation follows. He specifically asked that his name not appear in a newspaper so I have omitted his name from the discussion. I hope this helps clarify some things. It is probably best if read from the bottom up.
Best,
Mike Flaherty
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----- Original Message -----
From: {name omitted}
To: Mike Flaherty
Sent: Wednesday, August 27, 2003 11:03 AM
Subject: RE: Fisheries Minor Funds
Mike,
You are more than welcome to share this information with others. However, I would like to be sure my name does not end up in the newspaper.
As a side note, we did include language in the Fisheries and Wildlife line item (2310-0200) to ensure that we continue to receive federal reimbursement for many of the programs. I am not sure of the mechanics of the partnership, but figured I should mention it.
Could I ask for your home address and telephone number? I’d like to keep a file on this for future reference.
Regards,
{name omitted}
-----Original Message-----
From: Mike Flaherty [mailto:mikef@basspond.com]
Sent: Wednesday, August 27, 2003 10:35 AM
To: {name omitted}
Subject: Re: Fisheries Minor Funds
{name omitted},
Thank you very much for your detailed response. I was unaware that Wall Street had anything to do with the fund consolidation. I understand that Massachusetts is in a fiscal crisis but I think the key here is that we still fund these sportsman's programs to whatever extent is needed to ensure we receive our federal matching funds.
May I share this message with some of my friends, some of whom are constituents of Mr. Mariano?
Thanks,
Mike Flaherty
P.S.
I am a member of the Braintree Rifle and Pistol Club. Although I don't follow firearms issues as much as I have in the past, if BRPC named Mr. Mariano as Legislator of the Year then I trust that he is doing his best.
----- Original Message -----
From: {name omitted}
To: Mike Flaherty
Sent: Wednesday, August 27, 2003 10:01 AM
Subject: Fisheries Minor Funds
Morning Mike, sorry for the delay. I’ve had a chance to look into the issue, and wanted to pass on some info to you.
To answer your question, the issue in question was passed as part of the Fiscal Year 2004 state budget. It was written as part of the budget, not offered via amendment, so Ron’s only option was to vote up or down on the entire budget. He voted to approve the budget package. Having said that, I feel that there is some background information that may help to explain why the Committee on Ways and Means sought to change the way these monies are handled.
As part of the FY2004 state budget all “minor funds” were eliminated. These were accounts that had dedicated revenue streams designed to pay for specific services. These funds could be found many places throughout the budget, not just in areas effecting sportsmen. The drive to eliminate these funds was started by Wall Street bond rating companies – Moody’s and Standard & Poor, who were contemplating a downgrade of the state’s bond rating if a more responsible fiscal policy was not adopted. The problem with these funds is that there is no back-up plan to provide for the services if the revenue stream falters. Apparently, it is not uncommon for these funds to have negative balances. Whereas we are constitutionally required to pass a “balanced” budget, should a budget be considered balanced if the General Fund is okay but these minor funds are in the red? On the other hand, and as it appears to be the case in this situation, if there is a positive balance in a minor fund, can we run an equally large deficit in another account, and still be considered “balanced.” This was Wall Street’s problem. They would much rather have all the money on the table, and for us to pay for it all out of one account.
There is little doubt that programs under the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife will be cut as a result of our present fiscal crisis. The FY2004 state budget resulted in reductions in almost all areas.
Having said that, Ron has always been a supporter of, and received support from, sportsman’s groups. Within the last few years, he was named Legislator of the Year by the Braintree Rifle and Pistol Club. He has also been recognized for his efforts by other local sportsman’s associations. This year’s budget was full of distasteful options, neither choice being a positive one. I hope that you are able to view his record on these matters as a whole, and not focused upon this one particular action.
Thank you for contacting us with your concerns. Ron cares a great deal about his constituents’ opinions, and I will be sure to let him know your objections to these changes.
Please let me know if I can provide any further info.
Regards,
{name omitted}
-----Original Message-----
From: Mike Flaherty [mailto:mikef@basspond.com]
Sent: Tuesday, August 26, 2003 11:29 AM
To: {name omitted}
Subject: Pols have done Mass. sportsmen a disservice
{name omitted},
Here is the article I mentioned to you. Please reply with Representative Mariano's vote on this matter.
http://www.lowellsun.com/Stories/0,1...88731,00.html#
Thanks,
Mike Flaherty
Quincy, MA
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