From Gov. Schweitzer

Dear Friends:

As we look forward to a new year, I wanted to take this opportunity to share with you the parameters of my 2008-2009 budget proposals, and to reaffirm my strong commitment to working hard for you and your family.

My proposed budget is fiscally responsible and sustainable. I will not raise taxes – in fact – I am proposing a historic tax cut of $150 million, including $400 to each homeowner in Montana, totaling $100 million. Unlike the tax cuts of the 90’s, these tax cuts are actual cuts for Montanans, not tax shifts that give out-of-state companies and their non-resident owners a huge break while forcing an increase in small business and homeowner taxes at the local level.

The fiscal parameters I have placed on the budget include:
• A cap on ongoing spending of $1.8 billion for FY 2009 going forward to next biennium
• Spending below estimated revenues
• A $500 million cap on one-time spending for FY08 and FY09
• No loans in the form of bonds, we’ll pay cash
• $100 million ending fund balance
• Everything left will be put into the Big Sky Savings- just like you do at home

Montana is the best place to start a business, raise a family and build a community- together, we can make it even better. Nancy and I wish you a Merry Christmas and happy holidays!

Best,

but I really like this guy. Too bad I don't live there. I see a real big future for Schweitzer in Dem politics. And you gotta love he's the real deal as a rancher - not like our faux rancher in the WH.

Besides I love his dog Jag who's probably smarter than Bush.

I considered making one "My heroes have always been REAL cowboys: Brian Schweitzer '08".

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He is really pushing alt. fuels in Mont. Since there are huge, easily reachable seams of coal, his main push is coal to gas. This technology is quite advanced now, and is almost pollution free. Once finished with a seam the company's are required to restore land with no runoffs. He is an impressive speaker.

Wonderful governor who may or may not run for President in the future?!?

And now Jon Tester :)