Ward Favors Compromise on Money Issues

State Representative John Ward of Brainerd says the legislative leadership will be meeting with Governor Pawlenty later this week over money issues. The state is facing a $1.2 billion dollar deficit, and the prospect of state payment delays to school districts.

Ward tells KLKS News, he is not in favor of delaying school payments, but is willing to compromise with the Governor. He says that's what he wanted to do last spring. But, the Governor decided to unallot, or cut spending on his own.

Ward says there will have to be agreement among the House, Senate and Governor, if a special session is to be held prior to the regular session beginning February 4th. The Governor has said he wants to get a jump on fiscal problems facing the state.