FAIRFIELD, IOWA -- Former Governor Terry Branstad stopped in Fairfield Wednesday afternoon as part of his "Truth in Budgeting" tour as he campaigns for a return to the governor's mansion.
State Auditor David Vaudt joined Branstad as they met with more than a dozen residents, including Mayor Ed Malloy.
Branstad said his goals are to restore stability and predictability for services in Iowa. He added non-essential programs should be eliminated if we cannot afford them.
He also talked about following other states in creating a bi-annual budget.
“We should pass a bi-annual budget, a 2-year budget. Then the legislature can spend the second year doing oversight and looking at ways in which we can become more efficient and reduce the size and cost of government and improve the delivery system to the citizens.”
Branstad's number one rule: “Don’t spend more than you take in.”
When he was governor, Iowa averaged a 4% revenue increase; however Iowa no longer has that luxury in this economy.
“We have to adjust to the new reality and that is why we need to put in place these spending reforms and put together a 5-year strategic plan and bi-annual budget.”
Another financial issue Branstad discussed was Medicaid. He says we are facing a $500 million one-time money use to help cover the ongoing expenses of Medicaid and financing that in the future will be a big challenge.
"We need to look at what are the drivers, what are driving up the cost of medicated. One of the things I think we need to do is another major welfare reform initiative and that will help move people from welfare to work and provide job training and we obviously need to bring more businesses and jobs to Iowa."
Branstad and Vaudt also stopped in Keosauqua Wednesday afternoon for a town hall type meeting.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forKTVO