The Editor's Notepod, Sat., Jan 3, 2009

State: Gas tax. I think we should cease and desist from calling the revenue problems the state may face in the next two or three fiscal years “deficits.” They are not deficits until the budget and the year to which it applies are finished. It is perfectly proper to observe that tax revenues from gas and other sources are down and that expenditures have not declined proportionally. Obviously, ways must either be found to increase revenues or to cut expenses or the state will run a deficit. Running a deficit may not be allowed by the state’s own rules, but it may be unavoidable — and it isn’t necessarily the end of the world. It should also be pointed out the anticipated problem amounts to whatever percent of the budget — about $17 billion — the potential shortfall involves.

Southington: Arts & Crafts is still without a home. As the story notes, the town has particular space needs. And a strong feeling, evidently, not to build a lot of new space, given the three votes against a new town hall. It’s too bad.