House, Senate apply full-court press in budget talks

Two match-ups in the Commonwealth are generating lots of buzz.  Of course, I’m talking about the big game on Saturday, but I’m also talking about the Kentucky House and Senate trying to reach agreement on a budget that our Governor described as “wretched“.

According to the Legislative Research Commission, “state agencies and programs have undergone 10 rounds of spending cuts totaling 25-30 percent since the Great Recession settled over Kentucky and the nation like a gray mist in 2007.”  These cuts have had impacted all Kentucky communities and the nonprofits serving them – regardless of whether or not an organization contracts directly with government to provide key services and programs.

So, what’s next?  First, cheer on your favorite team this weekend!  Second, while this “wretched” budget is also nearing its “championship” of sorts, take some time to  start thinking about how your nonprofit can communicate most effectively with the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Tax Reform when the Commission takes it’s meetings on the road (beginning May 29 in Paducah and coming soon to a community near you).  KNN will keep you posted on details as they are confirmed.  In the meantime, I hope you will consider how your nonprofit and constituents can best communicate what the future of this Commonwealth might look like with adequate funding for your mission.

I like to think of myself as an optimist, especially in sports and politics.  I am optimistic that a Kentucky team will emerge from New Orleans as the national champion.  I am optimistic that the work of the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Tax Reform will yield recommendations that address our changing economy and the needs of our neighbors.  But most importantly, I’m an optimist about the future of this Commonwealth and that better days are ahead – especially if nonprofits and the voices of those we serve are heard.

Danielle Clore

Executive Director