The Saskatchewan Advantage: lower taxes, improved services, less debt... that's the promise of the newly announced provincial budget. What's not to like about that?
"While other provinces are recording deficits, we will post a surplus," Finance Minister Krawetz said earlier this week. "While others will struggle to maintain programs, we will improve our public services. While others will see their debt loads increase, we will reduce our debt. This budget will continue to strengthen our economy and make life more affordable by reducing taxes."
According to Krawetz, the 2011-12 Budget cuts taxes by almost $200 million, reduces debt by $325 million and improves public services, while still posting a surplus of $115 million and leaving just over $710 million in the government's "rainy day account."
That's a mouth full and while it looks great on paper let's hope the provincial government can deliver.
There's no question the province is doing well at a time when others are faltering but now, perhaps more than ever where careful budgeting will be crucial to continuing the trend.
"Saskatchewan's economy is expected to lead the nation this year," Krawetz adds. "Our government's goal is to build on that momentum and ensure all Saskatchewan people share in the benefits.... Lower taxes. A better quality of life. Balanced budget and reduced debt. That's the Saskatchewan Advantage."
Let's hope he's correct.
