Last week, a Texas official told some state legislators about his performance reviews of Texas government. A performance review evaluates government agencies and programs, with the goal of saving money, increasing efficiency, and improving service. They often identify services that are better performed by the private sector. In Texas, billions of dollars have been saved over the past decade as a result of these reviews. (more…)
Annexation is a hot topic in some parts of the state - hot not only because it's current but because it often stirs the deepest emotions of the people who are involved. As many in our state know all too well, the people who live in areas proposed for annexation do not get the opportunity to vote on the matter. Even their elected representatives in county government are prevented from voting in their behalf. This is patently un-American.
Strange things have been happening at the Capitol this year. Party labels have been thrown out the window, and those with strong ideological leanings have been leaning the other way.
The massive damage done to coastal communities by Hurricane Katrina provides a unique opportunity to build a highway system that will provide for quicker evacuation during emergencies, but also quicker transporting of goods from our ports on the Gulf of Mexico.
What is the proper role of government in the process of rebuilding south Mississippi? Our organization has suggested, along with the governor and others, that private investment is the key to recovery. So what can the government do to attract private investment?
Now that Congress has appropriated money to help rebuild south Mississippi, it would be easy for those of us who live north of the areas most affected by the storm to think that nothing else is needed. That's always the problem with government programs; they lull people into thinking any problem is solved if the government is spending money on it. (more…)
Usually in these commentaries, I tell you about ideas or perspectives dealing with public policy. Recently, I've been talking about ideas for rebuilding Mississippi after the hurricane. But this week, I want to tell you who we are.
Last week, we learned that FEMA officials predicted rioting along the Mississippi Gulf Coast in the early days after the hurricane. They thought our folks would react violently to the lack of needed supplies. (more…)
As the federal and state governments consider how much money to appropriate for helping to rebuild the Coast, other options for financing should be explored.
Several states and many foreign countries allow private sector investors and developers to build and own public infrastructure. In Europe, many highways are privately financed and operated, and are supported either by tolls or by long-term leases with the government.� Airports, water systems, and many public school facilities are built, owned and maintained by private developers.