It is good to see California getting more involved in this long-proven method of accomplishing public goals through deeper involvement of the private sector.
Change sought on state projects
More public-private partnerships being proposed by governor.
By Judy Lin - jlin@sacbee.com
Published 12:00 am PST Thursday, December 27, 2007
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on Wednesday proposed an expanded push for public-private partnerships and set a goal to add 20,000 new engineers to California's work force as part of his upcoming January budget plan.
The Schwarzenegger administration wants the state to expand the types of public projects that can be built with the financial might of private companies.
Current law does not allow state government broad authority to use this type of contracting – known as a Performance Based Infrastructure – except in emergencies or through legislative approval.
Unions representing state engineers oppose outsourcing road projects, arguing that private firms will seek profits at a greater cost to taxpayers.
But state finance officials believe increasing contract flexibility will result in better services, faster delivery and lower cost to taxpayers.
