Chris Saxman discusses VDOT

By Del. Chris Saxman
Republican - 20th House District

I'm sure you have heard the news recently surrounding VDOT's challenges in this economic downturn. Here in the Valley -- and throughout the state -- the Governor has suggested shutting down Interstate Rest Areas as a way to save money.

I raised my concerns about this proposal yesterday at a meeting of the Joint Commission on Transportation Accountability with Transportation Secretary Pierce Homer. I issued a press release on this situation which offers some ways I think we can work together for some better solutions.

With VDOT expressing concerns about not being able to fund maintenance and other projects, it is concerning to read in this morning's Richmond Times Dispatch that "The Virginia Department of Transportation last year paid more than $200,000 in one-time bonuses and more than $300,000 in salary increases to retain some of its top employees."

The article further notes that, despite shutting 28 facilities in 2008, VDOT has increased its payroll by 70 percent since 2000. We all know that costs go up, and Virginia is recognized as the best managed state, yet "VDOT's payroll this year is $651 million, up from $425 million in 2000."

You can read the full article online here.

I am not opposed to bonuses and salary increases. As a small businessman, I realize that it is important to reward hard work and results in order to retain good employees. I also understand that it is important to pay competitive salaries in order to keep good, highly trained employees.

What concerns me is that these bonuses are coming at a time when the Commonwealth and the nation are experiencing a significant economic downturn, and VDOT is considering laying off workers, shutting down rest areas and complaining about funding cuts. It is also concerning that VDOT has been growing its payroll at a rate of nearly 10% annually.

Tough times require us all to prioritize. The legislature just spent this year's legislative session finding ways to tighten our belts for state government, so to speak, to help the Commonwealth weather this economic storm and protect core services.

It is my hope that our state agencies will likewise find ways to ensure that they are operating in a fiscally responsible manner with the hard-earned tax dollars of Virginia citizens.

Cross-posted at SixtyFour81.com