Democratic nominee for Governor Dan Malloy today responded to questions being raised by state lawmakers about the decision earlier this year to cut nearly all funding to the Contracting Standards Board, which ensures that state contracting process is conducted in the most efficient manner possible and in the best interest of the state.
“This decision was short-sighted, and it was wrong,” said Malloy. “Everyone understands that Connecticut is facing dire financial circumstances, but we need to realize the difference between fat in the budget that can be trimmed, and necessary programs that actually save money when properly funded. Stripping funding from our contracting board has made the state less efficient, and it’s cost us money – period.”
As just one example, Malloy said it’s been reported that privatized bridge inspections in Connecticut have cost an additional $25 million since 2007. Malloy said that savings could be found if the Standards Board was supported and staffed as originally intended, and that those increased savings could then be used directly to fund the board itself in the years ahead.
“As Governor, I’ll work to the fund the board and to undertake an exhaustive review of all state contracts,” concluded Malloy. “Getting our financial house in order isn’t a matter of slashing vital government services and programs until we’re out of the red, as some would have you believe. It’s about being smart about where and how we allocate resources, tracking our progress to make sure we’re being as efficient as possible, and investing in programs that save money. That’s what I did as Mayor of Stamford, and that’s what I’ll do as Governor.”
