Sean Kershaw's Weblog

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July 26, 2006

More on my reaction to G&J: What I like

I'm glad there's a debate here. Growth and Justice's work -- and this topic -- is worth it.

So: what do I like about what they've done?

• They've sparked a critical and civil debate on an issue that matters way more than gay marriage and abortion and stadiums. They've put forth an agenda to make Minnesota better.
• I completely agree with their definition of real prosperity as broad-based economic growth, civic health, increasing the capacity to create wealth, and investing in the future.
• I believe there is a direct connection between MN's quality of life and our economic success, and that or Q of L is dependent on our civic, cultural and economic health -- what people built here and money spent wisely.
• On many indicators we are slipping (educational outcomes, health outcomes, congestion, etc.).
• They make it clear that we should maximize the impact of investments and ensure fiscal discipline.
• They advocate equity in taxes -- meaning that there shouldn't be disparities between the percentage of income paid in taxes between our low/middle/upper-income classes.
• They highlight the need to get more students ready for post-secondary education.
• I'm convinced personally that greater "investment" in early childhood education and healthcare are critical policy priorities.

AND -- to make a point I should have made earlier -- Joel is very clearthat we should only invest in what works. We should be investing where there is an ROI....

Posted by Sean Kershaw at July 26, 2006 5:27 AM