Bob Blumenfield is the Assemblyman representing my California district in Sacramento. Mr. Blumenfield represents a large portion of the west and north communities of the San Fernando Valley. As chair of the Assembly Budget Committee he has taken his “California Budget: Be part of the Solution” program on the road. He held a “Community Forum on State Budget Priorities” at a major senior center in the center of the Valley.
To my surprise the auditorium was filled with members of the SEIU. Most were wearing T shirts to advertise that fact. What had I walked into? The lady sitting next to me works downtown for the DMV. Although the senior center had publicized this event, there were no more than 10% seniors (based upon appearance). 600 people were expected to attend. There were at least 400 there.
In addition to Mr. Blumenfield the other assembly members included in the panel were Fiona Ma (D-San Francisco), Julia Brownley, 41st Assembly (D-Portions of the San Fernando Valley and adjoining areas), and Felipe Fuentes – Chairman of the Appropriations Committee (D-North East San Fernando Valley). Ms. Ma’s photo is from her web site. The other three photo were taken by me.
Questions were asked and audience participation provided answers using wireless communicators regarding services to be provided and ways to raise money to pay for those desired services. There was never any discussion about the fact that the budget is already projected to have a short fall of $24.3 Billion. There was never any discussion of the high cost of pensions or services provided to illegal aliens.
Mr. Blumenfield is a hard worker at spreading his face and name as demonstrated by the photo album on his assembly web site. Based on my attempt to ask questions after the meeting, he is not willing to discuss the real budget issues. He answered my questions with evasion.
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