Johnson declares 'rural Iowa under assault'

(Photo by Randy M. Cauthron) State Sen. David Johnson (R-Ocheyedan) makes a point during his comments as fellow Republican, Rep. Mike May (Spirit Lake) looks on. [Order this photo]

The third Eggs & Issues meeting in a four-session plan that spans the winter took place before a full audience Saturday morning in council chambers at Spencer City Hall.

With President of the Senate, Jack Kibbie unable to attend; Sen. David Johnson, Rep. Mike May, and Rep. Marcie Frevert spent the early portion of the gathering updating the northwest Iowa participants on the past week's activities.

Johnson spoke out against what he perceives as an assault on rural Iowa, suggesting that it's coming from a variety of sources.

Starting with the proposed consolidation plan for rural schools, Johnson called out his fellow Senator from Polk County for his recommendation of one superintendent per county.

"This is nothing but a grab for money by the most urban areas of the state," Johnson said. "We're talking about a policy that could take jobs out of all of our communities."

Turning his attention to health care, Johnson spoke about the $550 million for medicaid that the state is expected to see from the "bailout" or stimulus bill that President Barack Obama signed.

"Very little of that money is going to come to the field offices, another blow to rural Iowa," Johnson said. "Probably half of that money is going to stay in Des Moines."

He also suggested that the new plan to reduce court services is a shot to rural Iowa.

"We're looking at a number of fronts where pressure is being put on rural Iowa," Johnson insisted.

Both Frevert and May addressed education issues as well.

Frevert noted that on Thursday, $130 million was de-appropriated for schools, noting that two percent was passed for allowable growth in 2012. Frevert pointed out that last year, four percent was passed last year for 2011, but the governor funded it at two percent.

"For 2012, if you have a district that is losing students, you probably won't see any new dollars," said the Emmetsburg Democrat.

May, a Spirit Lake Republican, discussed the ongoing school start date matter. Calling it a "big issue," May said, "We're starting to get some traction. We're looking at the fourth Monday in August. We could have it on the House floor as early as next week. Some schools are starting on the 9th or 10th of August. If it keeps up, we'll probably be starting in July."

Todd Korbitz and Marti Bomgaars, representing the Spencer School Board, spoke together during the open comment portion of the session.

"I come here today with a heavy heart. We just cut three-quarter of a million from our school budget...This is becoming about big vs. small, rural vs. urban. The problem is a shift in demographics."

May, a former teacher in the Spirit Lake school system, agreed. "In rural Iowa, the problem is declining enrollment. We have to look. We have to get conversation started on how to fund education."

"The timing is appropriate for review,' Frevert said.

Johnson said, "Every year we make funding a priority in the legislature regardless of which party is in charge."

Korbitz added, "Too many times, the items discussed center around budget cuts and not academics."

Bob Whittenburg, the Clay County Democratic chairman, asked the local legislators to consider the issue of campaign finance reform.

"I don't think it's a partisan issue. I think we have clean government. We're one of the lucky few that have elected officials come talk to us," said Whittenburg who suggested that it would be a "healthier government" with possible reform. "Money is too big an influence."

"It's an issue we ought to look at," said May who shared his doubts. "I'm not sure it's possible...But I think it's something we should look at.

"Term limits might be the only answer."

Johnson asserted that McCain/Feingold was a disaster, leading to the creation of "shadow campaigns."

Jim Kitterman raised concerns regarding work comp and right-to-work laws, noting special concerns a a small business person.

Kitterman noted that the work comp bill will add 15 to 20 percent to premiums, and stressed that workers need to make the decision about whether he wants to belong to a union or not.

Johnson said, "I have been a forced union member...It's a violation of the U.S. Constitution."

Regarding the other matter, Johnson continued, "The federal bailout is not good for small businesses...Now we want to raise the cost of doing business,"

May spoke out about the defeat of the prevailing wage bill last week. "We were fortunate that there were enough votes there; but I don't know if we can fight them off.

Frevert, who voted for prevailing wage, suggested, she's tired of being called a "low wage stage."

Calling it the "softball" of the state financial package, Frevert said, "If that one doesn't pass, I don't think you have to worry about the others."

Curtis Dean, with Spencer Municipal Utilities, asked the legislators with help funding some local water infrastructure projects.

It was noted that there are already $600 million in projects seeking assistance.