FISCAL YEAR 2020 STATE BUDGET PROCESS BEGINS
Review Governor Gary R. Herbert's Budget Recommendations
The development of Utah’s fiscal year 2020 budget was kicked off when Governor Gary R. Herbert recently released his budget recommendations. Development of the budget will be a key component of the upcoming legislative session, which runs from January 28 through March 14. Governor Herbert said that his budget proposal is founded upon the four Rs: rational, reasonable, responsive, and reflective. The following highlights a few elements included in the budget proposal, which the Wasatch Front Regional Council (WFRC) believes is applicable to its members.
Governor Herbert speaks about growth related issues and the need to coordinate planning, programming, and investment to maintain Utah's high quality of life. WFRC applauds the Governor for setting forth a vision that integrates transportation with both land use and economic development. This approach is essential as Utah continues its rapid growth.
In the Land Use, Transportation, and Open Space section of the budget recommendations, the Governor proposes $3 million for "technical planning assistance grants," including a one-time $1 million and an ongoing $2 million (page 11). Additionally, the Governor recommends that "the state should partner with local governments and regional planning organizations to provide resources tailored to the communities’ needs, while respecting their unique values, character, and identity" (page 29). WFRC's
Transportation and Land Use Connection (TLC) program, which offers resources tailored to the communities' needs, was created with this in mind. The TLC program is administered by WFRC and jointly funded by WFRC, Salt Lake County, the Utah Department of Transportation, and the Utah Transit Authority.
Governor Herbert also proposes $25 million in matching grant funds for regionally significant community parks tied to efficient land use, transit-oriented development, and housing affordability goals (page 11). Additional information was not included in the budget proposal, however WFRC will remain engaged in these conversations as the budget process moves forward.
Finally, the Governor proposes that “a small portion of the state's Transportation Investment Fund be allowed to be used for active transportation” (pages 11, 29-30). This would be a significant step forward for active transportation.
WFRC looks forward to working with its members, partners, the Governor’s Office, and Legislature throughout the budget process. Read more about Governor Herbert's budget recommendations by clicking on the button below.
