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State Parks to Close?
#1327964
04/15/15 08:37 AM
04/15/15 08:37 AM
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 3,077
Guntersville, AL
BirminghamBuck
OP
10 point
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OP
10 point
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 3,077
Guntersville, AL
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Bentley needs to go. MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WHNT) – Budget cuts in Alabama are affecting many departments. As state legislators battle it out in Montgomery, state departments are warning employees of major cuts if the money doesn’t come.
The latest potential victim is Alabama State Parks. WHNT News 19 spoke with Kim Nix, spokesperson for the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, on Tuesday. Nix confirmed if legislators take funding away, there will be an emergency plan implemented to close a number of parks in the next year.
“What they proposed is going to be devastating,” said Nix.
WHNT News 19 contacted Alabama State Parks Director Greg Lein for further information. He issued this statement:
“Recently we were notified of the legislatures’ intent to transfer $11.4 million of funds from the 2016 Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) budget. The majority of these funds are to be transferred from ADCNR ($10.4 million) would come from the State Parks system. In anticipation of this loss in revenue, on May 1, 2015, we will implement an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) that closes several of our parks and park operations across the state. On June 1, 2015 we will implement a second EOP that will reduce the staffing and operational hours of several other parks. These dramatic changes will no doubt have a direct impact to their local communities and ultimately hurt our state’s economy.
The Governor has been working to address this chronic funding crisis of state government through a proposal to raise necessary funds. We encourage each of you to think about the two options being considered; the cuts and transfers proposed by the legislature that would close more than half our parks, or the plan proposed by the Governor. Please discuss this among your peers, family and local elected officials.”
A source provided an email listing these park closings to WHNT News 19. The email lists 15 parks that would close, including three in north Alabama. The email was purported to be from Director Lein to several high-ranking members of his department. In it, he asks park supervisors to notify employees of the possible cuts.
Lein confirms the 15 parks that would close by FY2016 are:
Bladon Springs
Chickasaw
Buck’s Pocket
Paul Grist
Florala
Blue Springs
Roland Cooper
Rickwood Caverns
Cheaha Park
Lake Lurleen
DeSoto
Lakepoint
Guntersville
Joe Wheeler
Frank Jackson
Lein said the seven parks that would remain open are Meaher, Wind Creek, Chewacla, Monte Sano, Cathedral Caverns, Oak Mountain and Gulf State Park.
“Those 15 parks have not consistently made a profit over the last three years,” said Lein. “The remaining 7 parks have. This is a very dynamic financial situation.”
Meanwhile, supporters of Alabama State Parks have created a Facebook page, Alabama State Parks Partners, urging people to join the effort to protect state parks. Supporters also plan to post updates about the parks and time-sensitive issues involving the legislature.
Alabama State Parks do have a user pay system. Fees collected from parking, camping, gift shops and other activities help fund the parks. However, the parks have had significant expenses in the last several years, including major rebuilding efforts at Lake Guntersville due to tornado damage.
Nix, the spokesperson, added the proposed state budget would take $2.8 million out of the parks’ guest revenue to be used for other state expenses.
WHNT News 19 contacted State Senator Arthur Orr about these potential cuts. He said there is no budget agreement yet. In the state’s current financial state, without any additional revenue, he said there would be about a 15 percent cut to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, which is over Alabama State Parks. He said how the Department chose to manage that loss is up to Department’s discretion.
We will continue to update WHNT.com throughout the day as this develops. We’ll also have the latest on WHNT News 19.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1327973
04/15/15 08:48 AM
04/15/15 08:48 AM
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Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 10,594
Central, Al
Bustinbeards
Booner
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Booner
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 10,594
Central, Al
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sounds just like Obama with the sequestration, trying to make it as noticeable and painful to the constituents as possible
Originally Posted By: Wiley Coyote
Well, the way I see it is there's just too many assholes
On a good day there's a bunch of assholes in here. On a bad day there's too many assholes in here.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: R_H_Clark]
#1327978
04/15/15 08:53 AM
04/15/15 08:53 AM
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Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 6,615
Lake View, AL
Joe4majors
14 point
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14 point
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 6,615
Lake View, AL
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There's never enough money for those not spending their own.
Just leave the parks open and let people in free. The way it should be anyway with each community organizing maintenance. I was going to say. We went up there for the first time in years and they went all out with the remodeling.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1327980
04/15/15 08:56 AM
04/15/15 08:56 AM
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Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 14,831
If you only knew.....
Tru-Talker
Booner
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Booner
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 14,831
If you only knew.....
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Typical threat scare tactics.... Close em..... It'll send people to spend money in other states...and in turn lose even more potential revenue.... However, the parks have had significant expenses in the last several years, including major rebuilding efforts at Lake Guntersville due to tornado damage. The state doesn't carry insurance on their own buildings to cover costs in case of these things....
Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves...
Confucius
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1327988
04/15/15 09:00 AM
04/15/15 09:00 AM
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Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 5,034
Northport, AL
Phil_Army
12 point
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12 point
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 5,034
Northport, AL
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Actually the state parks receive 90-95% of their funds from park fees. So I'm not sure how this would fix anything other than just being a scare tactic
Broker/Owner and Area Representative for 1st Class Real Estate
2018's #1 Real Estate Agent according to the Tuscaloosa News
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328009
04/15/15 09:17 AM
04/15/15 09:17 AM
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 7,583
Moss Creek
Gotcha1
Bright Eyes
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Bright Eyes
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 7,583
Moss Creek
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Get rid of the CAB, too. 
Last edited by Gotcha1; 04/15/15 09:17 AM.
Matt Brock wears knock-off Crocs.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Tru-Talker]
#1328012
04/15/15 09:25 AM
04/15/15 09:25 AM
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Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 24,832
Buc-ee’s Beach Express
leroycnbucks
Freak of Nature
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Freak of Nature
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 24,832
Buc-ee’s Beach Express
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Typical threat scare tactics.... Close em..... It'll send people to spend money in other states...and in turn lose even more potential revenue.... However, the parks have had significant expenses in the last several years, including major rebuilding efforts at Lake Guntersville due to tornado damage. The state doesn't carry insurance on their own buildings to cover costs in case of these things.... Yes they do. That's one of the many things I do.
Proud Army and ALNG veteran
God Bless America!
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328016
04/15/15 09:28 AM
04/15/15 09:28 AM
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Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 2,559
Hoover
mrfuzz
10 point
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10 point
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 2,559
Hoover
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I think we should close the legislature untill they come up with the money to run all of their pet projects out of their own pockett.
Hell, jets get rid of all of them and find a bunch of folks who know how to run a home on what they make every week without going into the negative by a trillion dollars.
Government is full of corrupt career politicians. It's not supposed to be this way.
The people elected to office are supposed to do their best to take care of business during their term and then GO HOME! Not with a lifetime of collecting money for doing what you were intrunsed to do for four years.
I need a job like that... work part time for four years with someone else paying for my vacations, then retire with a salary and free healthcare for life.
sorry... (soapbox)
my 2nd amendment guarantees your 1st amendment!
cixelsyd ton m'i tub (but i'm not dyslexic)
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328019
04/15/15 09:30 AM
04/15/15 09:30 AM
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Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 38,489
N. Bama
257wbymag
Boo Boo Head
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Boo Boo Head
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 38,489
N. Bama
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I still can't believe that cock roach looking SOB Dr from Tuscaloosa got elected.
Quietly killing turkeys where youre not!!!
My tank full of give a fraks been runnin on empty
I'm the paterfamilias
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: burbank]
#1328038
04/15/15 09:48 AM
04/15/15 09:48 AM
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Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 4,700
Pisgah, AL
bowtarist
THE Octopus
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THE Octopus
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 4,700
Pisgah, AL
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Close them. Let's turn them into hunting leases. I like it.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328053
04/15/15 09:58 AM
04/15/15 09:58 AM
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Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 32,451
North Alabama
YEKRUT
Turkey Nut
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Turkey Nut
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 32,451
North Alabama
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I'm leasing joe wheeler and subleasing the deer rights out.
Some men are mere hunters; others are turkey hunters. —Archibald Rutledge—
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328059
04/15/15 10:02 AM
04/15/15 10:02 AM
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Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 19,088
Chelsea, AL
straycat
Old Mossy Horns
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Old Mossy Horns
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 19,088
Chelsea, AL
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It is a budget earmarking issue.
"The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever." Isaiah 40:8
"Neither the wisest constitution nor the wisest laws will secure the liberty and happiness of a people whose manners are universally corrupt.ďż˝ Samuel Adams
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328079
04/15/15 10:28 AM
04/15/15 10:28 AM
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Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 2,559
Hoover
mrfuzz
10 point
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10 point
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 2,559
Hoover
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I wouldn't mind leasing Oak Mountain.... Deer hunting on the golf course till noon, then you can play golf till dark. $100 per man and all the beer you can drink for $3 served by pretty young things in bathing suites! I'll bet I don't have a budget issue, especially after they find out that the swimming hole will cost $25 per person.
ALL Scout troops free if they do service projects.
my 2nd amendment guarantees your 1st amendment!
cixelsyd ton m'i tub (but i'm not dyslexic)
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: YEKRUT]
#1328087
04/15/15 10:36 AM
04/15/15 10:36 AM
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Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 5,906
alex city
oakachoy
12 point
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12 point
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 5,906
alex city
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I'm leasing joe wheeler and subleasing the deer rights out. OK, I got dibs on Wind Creek SP
WM Hunter "Trump literally sacrificed himself, his family and all of his businesses for this country.
He literally is a true American hero. And True American Patriot - warts and all."
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328090
04/15/15 10:40 AM
04/15/15 10:40 AM
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Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 19,088
Chelsea, AL
straycat
Old Mossy Horns
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Old Mossy Horns
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 19,088
Chelsea, AL
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I call De Soto State Park! wooohoooo
"The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever." Isaiah 40:8
"Neither the wisest constitution nor the wisest laws will secure the liberty and happiness of a people whose manners are universally corrupt.ďż˝ Samuel Adams
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328117
04/15/15 11:22 AM
04/15/15 11:22 AM
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Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 2,460
Marshall County
Haybale
bearded hen
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bearded hen
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 2,460
Marshall County
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Guess I'll take Guntersville then.
"To God Be The Glory"
"I'm in if it involves sticking my hand in a hole". Brent mashburn.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Bustinbeards]
#1328128
04/15/15 11:40 AM
04/15/15 11:40 AM
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Joined: May 2010
Posts: 5,912
Cullman
CKyleC
(Can't Keep It Up...)
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(Can't Keep It Up...)
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 5,912
Cullman
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sounds just like Obama with the sequestration, trying to make it as noticeable and painful to the constituents as possible This was my first thought. Remember his quote, "make it hurt". Bentley is Bama's Obama.
"In Alabama, we prefer to kill small bucks on big properties"-Turkey247
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328162
04/15/15 12:25 PM
04/15/15 12:25 PM
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Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 39,449
Marshall County
FurFlyin
Freak of Nature
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Freak of Nature
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 39,449
Marshall County
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It's called a temper tantrum. Let the gubner shut them all down. Shut down Montgomery. Shut down the state highways.
I do not care what they shut down. I am FED UP with paying taxes and I will NEVER vote to pay ONE MORE CENT.
The well is dry. There is no blood left in the turnip. Cut spending by 40% and balance the budget, then we'll talk. I'm tired of paying for what's mine, what's "yours" and what's theirs.
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: mrfuzz]
#1328225
04/15/15 01:36 PM
04/15/15 01:36 PM
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Joined: Nov 2014
Posts: 16,495
Guntersville
AC870
Old Mossy Horns
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Old Mossy Horns
Joined: Nov 2014
Posts: 16,495
Guntersville
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I wouldn't mind leasing Oak Mountain.... Deer hunting on the golf course till noon, then you can play golf till dark. $100 per man and all the beer you can drink for $3 served by pretty young things in bathing suites! I'll bet I don't have a budget issue, especially after they find out that the swimming hole will cost $25 per person.
ALL Scout troops free if they do service projects.
I'm not leasing just paying Mr Fuzz to hunt and golf and taking few singles for the suds from the purty young thangs. Hell we need this guy running more clubs. I like the way he thinks. Can the scouts gutting and skinning count as a service project?
“Killing tomorrow’s trophies today.”
On the distance I like to walk to my stands:
“The first 100 yards is also the last 100 yards.”
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: FurFlyin]
#1328275
04/15/15 02:50 PM
04/15/15 02:50 PM
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Joined: May 2010
Posts: 5,912
Cullman
CKyleC
(Can't Keep It Up...)
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(Can't Keep It Up...)
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 5,912
Cullman
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It's called a temper tantrum. Let the gubner shut them all down. Shut down Montgomery. Shut down the state highways.
I do not care what they shut down. I am FED UP with paying taxes and I will NEVER vote to pay ONE MORE CENT.
The well is dry. There is no blood left in the turnip. Cut spending by 40% and balance the budget, then we'll talk. I'm tired of paying for what's mine, what's "yours" and what's theirs.
Preach It!
"In Alabama, we prefer to kill small bucks on big properties"-Turkey247
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: CKyleC]
#1328369
04/15/15 04:05 PM
04/15/15 04:05 PM
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Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 39,449
Marshall County
FurFlyin
Freak of Nature
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Freak of Nature
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 39,449
Marshall County
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It's called a temper tantrum. Let the gubner shut them all down. Shut down Montgomery. Shut down the state highways.
I do not care what they shut down. I am FED UP with paying taxes and I will NEVER vote to pay ONE MORE CENT.
The well is dry. There is no blood left in the turnip. Cut spending by 40% and balance the budget, then we'll talk. I'm tired of paying for what's mine, what's "yours" and what's theirs.
Preach It! Y'all write me in on the next ballot as Gov. I'll shut a whole lot of stuff down. I'll shut down the state government until the waste is gone. If the business I own can't make it on what we earn, we go bankrupt. The state already gets too much of our money. Fix the problems, don't ask for more of my money or SHUT THE WHOLE STATE DOWN. I'm fed up with it.
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328441
04/15/15 04:52 PM
04/15/15 04:52 PM
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Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 44,211
North Alabama
Wiley Coyote
Freak of Nature
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Freak of Nature
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 44,211
North Alabama
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The state could save lots of money if they'd get out of the damn liquor business. Why are the liquor stores part of state government?
I firmly believe that a double gallows should be constructed on the East Lawn of The White House. Politicians who willfully and shamelessly violate their oath to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America should be swiftly tried and, upon conviction, publicly hanged at sunup the day after conviction. If multiple convicts are to be hanged they can choose with whom to share the gallows or names shall be drawn from the hangman's hat to be hanged 2 at a time.
NRA Life Member
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Wiley Coyote]
#1328515
04/15/15 11:11 PM
04/15/15 11:11 PM
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Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 185
Jacksonville
JSOG47
3 point
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3 point
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 185
Jacksonville
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The state could save lots of money if they'd get out of the damn liquor business. Why are the liquor stores part of state government? I don't know for sure but its hard to imagine the state is losing money there. Heck, people are always buying booze.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328527
04/16/15 12:25 AM
04/16/15 12:25 AM
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Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 1,595
Odenville, AL
Flyway
8 point
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8 point
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 1,595
Odenville, AL
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Isn't this what living on a budget looks like? If you can't afford it then you don't get to have it. If there are parks that can't sustain themselves then why should they stay open? I hate the thought of some parks closing but odds are that if they're not self sustaining then not enough people are visiting them to notice much when they're gone. Of the parks closing I've been to 1 one time and another 3 or 4 times. I really enjoy them, but I'd sure rather you close them than raise my taxes.
What Bently (and all politicians) fail to understand is that they work for us. It'd be the equivalent of me going to my boss and saying Hey! I just bought some new stuff but I can't afford it on what you're paying me so I'm gonna need you to give me some more money...and if you don't give it to me then I'm gonna have to get rid of some of my things I've bought but can't afford.
Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death! - Patrick Henry
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: hawgwild]
#1328533
04/16/15 12:50 AM
04/16/15 12:50 AM
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Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 2,838
Parts Unknown
Cletus
10 point
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10 point
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 2,838
Parts Unknown
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Well hell, since y'all have all the other ones, guess I'll take Bucks Pocket since I can be there in 30 min. Dang.......I wanted bucks pocket. No politicians welcome under the new rules.......defeated or not.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Cletus]
#1328545
04/16/15 01:12 AM
04/16/15 01:12 AM
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Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 24,832
Buc-ee’s Beach Express
leroycnbucks
Freak of Nature
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Freak of Nature
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 24,832
Buc-ee’s Beach Express
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State parks should be managed by RSA. Y'all see any RTJ courses closing down? Business folks know how to manage money not politicians.
Proud Army and ALNG veteran
God Bless America!
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Wiley Coyote]
#1328557
04/16/15 01:40 AM
04/16/15 01:40 AM
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 7,583
Moss Creek
Gotcha1
Bright Eyes
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Bright Eyes
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 7,583
Moss Creek
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The state could save lots of money if they'd get out of the damn liquor business. Why are the liquor stores part of state government? Wiley--You are exactly right. Al.com had the audacity to publish a piece about how the state was doing it right on liquor sales. In summary, saying that Alabama was pulling in more money than the states that privatize it. BS BS BS Go across the Hooch and see the liquor stores' parking lots filled up with Alabama license plates. Go inside and check out the selection. Check the pricing. It's a total fabrication and there is no doubt that they are the worst numbers people in the world or the world's biggest finaglers. State run liquor stores are a joke and only a way to pad the pockets of politicians.
Last edited by Gotcha1; 04/16/15 03:12 AM.
Matt Brock wears knock-off Crocs.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328753
04/16/15 04:47 AM
04/16/15 04:47 AM
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Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 5,577
Tuscaloosa, AL
Bowfool
12 point
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12 point
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 5,577
Tuscaloosa, AL
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I thought Bentley had more balls. Yes, it is all grandstanding!
Last edited by Bowfool; 04/16/15 04:48 AM.
‘Obama Is the Greatest Hoax Ever Perpetrated on the American People’ - Clint Eastwood
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: leroycnbucks]
#1328773
04/16/15 05:01 AM
04/16/15 05:01 AM
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
Clem
Mildly Quirky
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Mildly Quirky
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
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State parks should be managed by RSA. Y'all see any RTJ courses closing down? Business folks know how to manage money not politicians. Parks can't be privatized, right? Wasn't that the big kerfluffle when Gulf State Park was to be rebuilt and managed by an outside group? I know another hotel owner down there didn't want the park resort to be built for a convention center b/c it would have taken away from his own revenue, but I believe the DCNR was legally blocked by the courts about privatizing the parks.
"Hunting Politics are stupid!" - Farm Hunter
"Bible says you shouldn't put sugar in your cornbread." Dustin, 2013
"Best I can figure 97.365% of the general public is a paint chip eating, mouth breathing, certified dumbass." BCLC, 2020
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328783
04/16/15 05:08 AM
04/16/15 05:08 AM
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
Clem
Mildly Quirky
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Mildly Quirky
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
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Close all the WMAs and shooting ranges, too.
"Hunting Politics are stupid!" - Farm Hunter
"Bible says you shouldn't put sugar in your cornbread." Dustin, 2013
"Best I can figure 97.365% of the general public is a paint chip eating, mouth breathing, certified dumbass." BCLC, 2020
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328788
04/16/15 05:11 AM
04/16/15 05:11 AM
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Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 25,687
South Alabama
Rebelman
Freak of Nature
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Freak of Nature
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 25,687
South Alabama
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“Those 15 parks have not consistently made a profit over the last three years,” said Lein. “The remaining 7 parks have. This is a very dynamic financial situation. Should have been closed 3 years ago from my perspective.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328807
04/16/15 05:22 AM
04/16/15 05:22 AM
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Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 2,435
HUEYTOWN,AL
Shaneomac1
10 point
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10 point
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 2,435
HUEYTOWN,AL
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that suxs. I have a two day tourney on al river and have plans to stay at roland cooper. need to make new plans i guess
"To be angry is to be alive. I love it. Anger is better than love. I think it is more pure,". Al Goldstein
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328821
04/16/15 05:30 AM
04/16/15 05:30 AM
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
Clem
Mildly Quirky
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Mildly Quirky
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
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All bass tournaments and otherwise at the state parks would have to find other launching ramps, too.
In fact, all state boat ramps should be closed and gated off, too. Shut all of them down as well. Anything at all related to state parks and public lands - close it, sell it, shut it down, give it to private landowners to develop, cut timber, mine, etc.
Might as well. The public doesn't need public land. Go to a city park with a quilt and enjoy "the outdoors."
Feds need to close Bankhead and sell off all the national forests and refuges, too. Decatur would look f'king spectacular with more industry lining the river between Lacey's Spring and Mallard-Fox Creek. Everything between I-65 and Madison on the north side of the river could be turned into asphalt, concrete and industry.
Someone in the Legislature and Congress needs to get a set of balls and get these wheels in motion. Sell everything for development. That's progress!
"Hunting Politics are stupid!" - Farm Hunter
"Bible says you shouldn't put sugar in your cornbread." Dustin, 2013
"Best I can figure 97.365% of the general public is a paint chip eating, mouth breathing, certified dumbass." BCLC, 2020
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: charlie]
#1328838
04/16/15 05:40 AM
04/16/15 05:40 AM
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
Clem
Mildly Quirky
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Mildly Quirky
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
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Volunteer to cut grass and pay a ramp fee?  If the parks aren't being manned by any park employees, who's going to go pick up the money being "voluntarily donated" at the ramps? The volunteers going to cut the grass? Just sell everything. Sell it all. Probably should do away with some agencies, too, like DCNR, soil conservation, agriculture extension service, anything like that. Hunters and farmers and fishermen can take care of themselves. No agencies and bureaucrats needed for anything like that. Lakepoint and Eufaula NWR would be a hell of an industrial park for Eufaula.
"Hunting Politics are stupid!" - Farm Hunter
"Bible says you shouldn't put sugar in your cornbread." Dustin, 2013
"Best I can figure 97.365% of the general public is a paint chip eating, mouth breathing, certified dumbass." BCLC, 2020
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328845
04/16/15 05:44 AM
04/16/15 05:44 AM
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
Clem
Mildly Quirky
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Mildly Quirky
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
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Remember, too, with no bureaucrats and agencies then we don't have hunting seasons, bag limits and that oh-so-important 3-buck limit to protect the little bucks so they can grow up to be big RackMonsterWallHangerPoopMyShorts trophy bucks.
No limits, no seasons, no restrictions. Shut down the agencies and sell all the land.
"Hunting Politics are stupid!" - Farm Hunter
"Bible says you shouldn't put sugar in your cornbread." Dustin, 2013
"Best I can figure 97.365% of the general public is a paint chip eating, mouth breathing, certified dumbass." BCLC, 2020
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Rebelman]
#1328847
04/16/15 05:44 AM
04/16/15 05:44 AM
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Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 2,997
Columbia, SC
CeeHawk37
10 point
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10 point
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 2,997
Columbia, SC
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“Those 15 parks have not consistently made a profit over the last three years,” said Lein. “The remaining 7 parks have. This is a very dynamic financial situation. Should have been closed 3 years ago from my perspective. So, instead of fixing what is broken, the idea is to scrap them? Who's the genius running these places that can't at least break even? With Cheaha there should be no way in hell they can't make money.. You have a lodge, store, user fee areas, lakes, camping areas, a restaurant, and it's the highest point in AL. Charging someone 5 bucks to park instead of 3 ain't that hard.. Increase camping fees 10 or 20%.. I could go on but that won't run people away. I could see the parks cost being high with renovations and such but it is a little mind boggling.. This seems like a tactic to make the public feel the pain instead of those in Monkeytown actually doing what they are tasked to do as public servants.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328868
04/16/15 05:59 AM
04/16/15 05:59 AM
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Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 19,088
Chelsea, AL
straycat
Old Mossy Horns
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Old Mossy Horns
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 19,088
Chelsea, AL
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Guys, it is true that there is money being spent poorly, but over the past few years this has been cut significantly. Not perfect by any means, but better than ever. But right now the bigger problem is allocation of tax revenue to the places that need it most.
Picture your own personal budget. Now pretend that 91% of your income is required by law or statute to fund certain and specific things within your budget spending...mandatory with zero discretion. You have 11% to cover as you see fit across your entire budget. Oh, and by the way, you actually have 2 budgets: General and Education. Education gets a fixed amount and by law must be increased each year. General is required by law to be balanced.
Now in your Education budget you have extra money left over with a nice surplus over the years. But you can't touch it.
In your General budget, cost of living has skyrocketed and the Fed Gov't has done things that has made your cost go through the roof. But you have set % amounts by statute you have to fund in your line item budget with zero discretion. Remember the General budget has to be balanced and 91% of your money is earmarked. Only 9 % you can adjust.
The state is short $270 million in the General Fund. Let's say you are short $27,000 in your General person budget. Your Education budget has a $20,000 surplus but you can't move that over to help. There are programs you are involved in within your General budget that you cannot end by statute and you must fund them their percentage of revenue. Groceries must get 15% no matter what. Healthcare/Insurance must get 50% no matter what. Security System must get 15% no matter what. Four other items get a combined 11% no matter what. You have 9% left over to cover everything else. But you really need 29% to break even. You are facing a shortfall. You have cut most everything you can and are try not to waste too much money.
What do you do?
A. Get an extra job, a better paying job to make more money to cover your costs?
OR
B. You get out from under the earmarks so you can fund the most important things first in a priority order until things get balanced. Then and only then, if needed, do you get an extra job.
"The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever." Isaiah 40:8
"Neither the wisest constitution nor the wisest laws will secure the liberty and happiness of a people whose manners are universally corrupt.ďż˝ Samuel Adams
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: CeeHawk37]
#1328869
04/16/15 06:01 AM
04/16/15 06:01 AM
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
Clem
Mildly Quirky
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Mildly Quirky
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
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Charging someone 5 bucks to park instead of 3 ain't that hard.. Increase camping fees 10 or 20%. When raising state park fees is mentioned, the public goes apeshit about "spending more money for fatcat bureaucrats in our PUBLIC land!!!" and it doesn't get done. Same as when hunting/fishing license fees increase. "Waaaa! My hunting license went up 87 cents this year! Chuck Sykes is getting rich off these license fee increases!" "Waaa! I have to pay a dollar more to launch a boat or two dollars more to park at Oak Mountain! The giant lunch buffet at Lakepoint went up by $1.50 and now it will cost my family of six more money to go pig out every Sunday! Waaa! Legislators and state park employees sitting on their big asses getting richer and richer!" None of that is true, of course. But it doesn't matter because the knee-jerk public reactions like that are common. That's why the state should just sell all that land for industrial development and shut down the agencies.
"Hunting Politics are stupid!" - Farm Hunter
"Bible says you shouldn't put sugar in your cornbread." Dustin, 2013
"Best I can figure 97.365% of the general public is a paint chip eating, mouth breathing, certified dumbass." BCLC, 2020
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: straycat]
#1328871
04/16/15 06:02 AM
04/16/15 06:02 AM
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
Clem
Mildly Quirky
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Mildly Quirky
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
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Guys, it is true that there is money being spent poorly Where and what, specifically? Just curious.
Last edited by Clem; 04/16/15 06:03 AM.
"Hunting Politics are stupid!" - Farm Hunter
"Bible says you shouldn't put sugar in your cornbread." Dustin, 2013
"Best I can figure 97.365% of the general public is a paint chip eating, mouth breathing, certified dumbass." BCLC, 2020
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Clem]
#1328925
04/16/15 06:33 AM
04/16/15 06:33 AM
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Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 15,547
Panhandle Florida
PaschalBD
Used to be TiderBD
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Used to be TiderBD
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 15,547
Panhandle Florida
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Remember, too, with no bureaucrats and agencies then we don't have hunting seasons, bag limits and that oh-so-important 3-buck limit to protect the little bucks so they can grow up to be big RackMonsterWallHangerPoopMyShorts trophy bucks.
No limits, no seasons, no restrictions. Shut down the agencies and sell all the land.
Damn....I think I'm gettin a chubby. 
A servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.
USAF Veteran
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1328932
04/16/15 06:43 AM
04/16/15 06:43 AM
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
Clem
Mildly Quirky
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Mildly Quirky
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
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Great idea, Augustus. They used to use state prisoners for cleanup and such at Gulf State Park, so there precedent has been set.
"Welcome to Oak Mountain State Park. Parking is $10, a pack of smokes and I can get you a prime spot near the lodge for a little extra."
But, the sign says parking is just $5.
"Parking is $10 and a pack of smokes. And remember, snitches get stitches."
"Hunting Politics are stupid!" - Farm Hunter
"Bible says you shouldn't put sugar in your cornbread." Dustin, 2013
"Best I can figure 97.365% of the general public is a paint chip eating, mouth breathing, certified dumbass." BCLC, 2020
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Clem]
#1328942
04/16/15 06:53 AM
04/16/15 06:53 AM
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Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 24,832
Buc-ee’s Beach Express
leroycnbucks
Freak of Nature
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Freak of Nature
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 24,832
Buc-ee’s Beach Express
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State parks should be managed by RSA. Y'all see any RTJ courses closing down? Business folks know how to manage money not politicians. Parks can't be privatized, right? Wasn't that the big kerfluffle when Gulf State Park was to be rebuilt and managed by an outside group? I know another hotel owner down there didn't want the park resort to be built for a convention center b/c it would have taken away from his own revenue, but I believe the DCNR was legally blocked by the courts about privatizing the parks. The RSA is a state agency. Dr. Bonner wanted to build a convention center at Gulf State Park using RSA funds and investors with no tax dollars being used but politics got in the way. It still may happen some day and we need one so Alabama businesses can have their convention in state and not in Sandestin.
Proud Army and ALNG veteran
God Bless America!
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Clem]
#1328962
04/16/15 07:15 AM
04/16/15 07:15 AM
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Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 19,088
Chelsea, AL
straycat
Old Mossy Horns
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Old Mossy Horns
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 19,088
Chelsea, AL
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Guys, it is true that there is money being spent poorly Where and what, specifically? Just curious. Examples: Education: I'm not talking salaries of teachers, but capital expenditures. Kids in public schools need a nice and safe school, but some of the architecture and design of our schools is outrageously expensive. Multi-million dollar Taj Mahal schools...when a good basic building would do just as good. Curriculum and programs in schools could also be adjusted to save money...when cash poor focus on the basics and let extra curricular or non-core classes be fee based so parents can help fund. Why does Education have their own budget and run surpluses....redo the system. Just a few examples....but this is in Education which is all earmarked anyway. Prisons: Our prisons are overcrowded and cost lots of money...huge % of budget. Non-violent offenders need to be put to work all across the state instead of being locked up. Cutting grass, cleaning rivers and lakes, road crews, chain gangs, painting schools, etc... Make them work to pay their community service. Much cheaper than housing them. If they don't show up or refuse to work, lock them up. Just one example. Medicaid: Fraud and abuse of Medicaid is high. Doctors milk it. Citizens get on it and stay on it. The safety net has become comfortable hammock. Those who truly need it for long term should get the care they need always. Truly need--the definition is broad and is part of the problem. Medicaid spending is a huge budget item. Agencies: Ever looked at how many State agencies, boards, commissions, etc... there are? Not really small and limited government. I'd guess there could be more consolidation of resources. Plenty of overlap. Take construction for example, there is the Building Commission, Builders Licensure Board, General Contractors Licensure Board, HVAC Board, Plumbing and Gas Board, Architect Board, etc.... Why not streamline all of these into one Building/Construction agency? One example. Then there is the by-product of so many stat employees---the pension system which is already in trouble financially. Why not privatize and bid out non-core or non-essential services or roles within our state government? Kick it to the private sector to do and save some state money...a business has flexibility to budget how it needs to budget along with that is built in accountability because if it, the private business, does a bad job the contract is in jeopardy. Agency list: http://inform.alabama.gov/agencysearch.aspx Bottom line is this:Medicaid and Prisons are the two biggest budget busters. No one wants to keep children from receiving quality care nor do they want criminals roaming free. Reforms must be made in these two areas for any significant budget resolution. Our state government is too big, too slow, too costly in size and scope--consolidate and reform it now before it gets worse. This is must my thought...many other people with good ideas too.
Last edited by straycat; 04/16/15 07:15 AM.
"The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever." Isaiah 40:8
"Neither the wisest constitution nor the wisest laws will secure the liberty and happiness of a people whose manners are universally corrupt.ďż˝ Samuel Adams
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1329060
04/16/15 08:33 AM
04/16/15 08:33 AM
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
Clem
Mildly Quirky
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Mildly Quirky
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51,956
Round â€bout there
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How often do they purchase new vehicles and equipment, like mowers and tractors?
"Hunting Politics are stupid!" - Farm Hunter
"Bible says you shouldn't put sugar in your cornbread." Dustin, 2013
"Best I can figure 97.365% of the general public is a paint chip eating, mouth breathing, certified dumbass." BCLC, 2020
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1329068
04/16/15 08:38 AM
04/16/15 08:38 AM
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Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 2,460
Marshall County
Haybale
bearded hen
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bearded hen
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 2,460
Marshall County
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And there still spending money daily. Heck there putting in a zip line at Guntersville as I type this. I agree with letting a private group run them. Lease it out and let them make money. There's too many pockets being padded for the state to ever make any money at them. Until some peoples hands get out of the cookie jar it will always be the same. I don't believe they will close them either. There just running there mouths IMO.
"To God Be The Glory"
"I'm in if it involves sticking my hand in a hole". Brent mashburn.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Haybale]
#1329096
04/16/15 08:57 AM
04/16/15 08:57 AM
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 3,077
Guntersville, AL
BirminghamBuck
OP
10 point
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OP
10 point
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 3,077
Guntersville, AL
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And there still spending money daily. Heck there putting in a zip line at Guntersville as I type this. I agree with letting a private group run them. Lease it out and let them make money. There's too many pockets being padded for the state to ever make any money at them. Until some peoples hands get out of the cookie jar it will always be the same. I don't believe they will close them either. There just running there mouths IMO. The zip line is being funded by a private company.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Clem]
#1329123
04/16/15 09:19 AM
04/16/15 09:19 AM
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Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 5,342
mobile
charlie
12 point
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12 point
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 5,342
mobile
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I don't know, but they always have new stuff. A diesel Kubota mower is about the most expensive lawn mower you can buy. That's what I saw them using here in the city yesterday. Are you saying the state doesn't waste huge amounts of money?
How often do they purchase new vehicles and equipment, like mowers and tractors?
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1329149
04/16/15 09:43 AM
04/16/15 09:43 AM
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Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 2,435
HUEYTOWN,AL
Shaneomac1
10 point
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10 point
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 2,435
HUEYTOWN,AL
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I wonder if Bridgeport launch on Al river is part of the state park funding or corps?
"To be angry is to be alive. I love it. Anger is better than love. I think it is more pure,". Al Goldstein
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1329151
04/16/15 09:43 AM
04/16/15 09:43 AM
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Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 69
Suttle
Rocky
spike
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spike
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 69
Suttle
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Bentley is not the one threatening to close the parks. Greg Lein is the person responsible for the scare tactics. This is politics at its worst. Check out this post from a month ago and you'll be enlightened on Alabama's State Park System. http://www.aldeer.com/forum/ubbthreads.p...195#Post1291195
Last edited by Rocky; 04/16/15 09:55 AM.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1329156
04/16/15 09:49 AM
04/16/15 09:49 AM
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Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 25,687
South Alabama
Rebelman
Freak of Nature
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Freak of Nature
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 25,687
South Alabama
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I admit I know little about State Parks budget and operating procedures however I do know a little about land, timber, and recreational business development. Sign me up for the job and I'll have the parks not only self sufficient but with excess revenue going back into the communities aimed at youth involvement in the outdoors.
Last edited by Rebelman; 04/16/15 09:50 AM.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Rocky]
#1329163
04/16/15 09:52 AM
04/16/15 09:52 AM
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Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 42,113
UR 6
top cat
Freak of Nature
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Freak of Nature
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 42,113
UR 6
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All I keep hearing is "They arn't making any money." What??? I thought they were open for folks to enjoy not for the state to make money...It's not a business, to me at least.
LUCK:::; When presistence, dedication, perspiration and preparation meet up with opportunity!!!
- - - - - - - -A government big enough to give you everything you want, is big enough to take everything you have. Thomas Jeferson - - - - - - - -
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: top cat]
#1329175
04/16/15 10:09 AM
04/16/15 10:09 AM
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Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 25,687
South Alabama
Rebelman
Freak of Nature
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Freak of Nature
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 25,687
South Alabama
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All I keep hearing is "They arn't making any money." What??? I thought they were open for folks to enjoy not for the state to make money...It's not a business, to me at least. Everyone has to pull their own weight. You don't have to make a bunch of money but you have to profit enough to pay the light bill.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1330293
04/17/15 12:49 PM
04/17/15 12:49 PM
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Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 12,788
Thomasville, AL
Hogwild
Booner
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Booner
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 12,788
Thomasville, AL
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I just keep wondering about this.....
There has GOT to be more to it!
Why go after the DCNR in a Statewide funding crisis?
What is the 'real' reason???
Heck, of all the Budgets to cut, they are a very small part of the big picture. And, there is only a certain percentage of their budget that comes from the General Fund. If anything, they COULD be self-sufficient! Heck, they have the Forever Wild Fund and Pittman Robertson....and they are safe, aren't they? I know that the Politicians have tried and tried to get ahold of some of it. But, so far, they have failed.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Hogwild]
#1330302
04/17/15 01:00 PM
04/17/15 01:00 PM
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Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 63,826
Luverne, AL
Skinny
GUVNER
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GUVNER
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 63,826
Luverne, AL
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I just keep wondering about this.....
There has GOT to be more to it!
Why go after the DCNR in a Statewide funding crisis?
What is the 'real' reason???
Its the Obama strategy, do the immediate most public thing you can so it is everyone's face then the b1tching and moaning becomes ridiculous. If they cut something like a line-item budget that supplies schools with textbooks, you wont see it happen for two years. The state parks are something he can close today and make everyone see and most importantly, bitch about it right now.
Never Trust Government
"You can be broke but you cant be poor." Ruthie-May Webster
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Hogwild]
#1330320
04/17/15 01:20 PM
04/17/15 01:20 PM
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Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 63,826
Luverne, AL
Skinny
GUVNER
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GUVNER
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 63,826
Luverne, AL
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How safe are the funds ear-marked for Conservation and Forever Wild?
Good call. They are not safe because of the last vote which took place that I was arguing against, but everyone said to go ahead and vote for it. This is exactly what I was afraid of, and it is an excuse to raid the Forever Wild trust. This is also probably why Greg Lien who is sharp as tack and knows the game well is making the closures very public. Just my guess, but it is obvious that will be the next move.
Never Trust Government
"You can be broke but you cant be poor." Ruthie-May Webster
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Rebelman]
#1330322
04/17/15 01:24 PM
04/17/15 01:24 PM
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Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 8,180
Coffee Co, AL
jlccoffee
14 point
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14 point
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 8,180
Coffee Co, AL
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All I keep hearing is "They arn't making any money." What??? I thought they were open for folks to enjoy not for the state to make money...It's not a business, to me at least. Everyone has to pull their own weight. You don't have to make a bunch of money but you have to profit enough to pay the light bill. I disagree with this. If the government should be in the park business is up for debate, but I don't think institutions that are profitable should be administered by the government. The government should be there to provide services that are not profitable to private industry. Private industry and capitalism take care of the rest.
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1330325
04/17/15 01:26 PM
04/17/15 01:26 PM
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Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 63,826
Luverne, AL
Skinny
GUVNER
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GUVNER
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 63,826
Luverne, AL
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The politicians have been salivating over the Forever Wild fund, and the other earmarked funds for a long time now. They use these budget "crisis" moments to raid them to pay for their special projects. Its a very typical Alabama politics move that George Wallace perfected in the 1960's.
Fact is, they could issue a long-term bond to cover the shortfall without voter approval and put it on a 99 year pay out. But that would be seen as borrowing money we don't have which does not go over well in the press.
Never Trust Government
"You can be broke but you cant be poor." Ruthie-May Webster
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Hogwild]
#1330332
04/17/15 01:32 PM
04/17/15 01:32 PM
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Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 63,826
Luverne, AL
Skinny
GUVNER
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GUVNER
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 63,826
Luverne, AL
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Once the tap is inserted into Forever Wild.....it WILL be bled dry!!! Yes it will. FW is seen as a big pile of cash for that shiny new toy that you really want really bad. Its burning a hole in their pockets. The problem is, we all know that they will waste it on whores instead of keeping it for its intended purpose.
Never Trust Government
"You can be broke but you cant be poor." Ruthie-May Webster
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: Hogwild]
#1330344
04/17/15 01:43 PM
04/17/15 01:43 PM
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Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 63,826
Luverne, AL
Skinny
GUVNER
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GUVNER
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 63,826
Luverne, AL
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I wonder if there is anything that We, the People, can do to stop this??
I mean, Forever Wild seems to get overwhelming Public Support. So, that is obviously not enough!!! Have politicians ever really cared about the public? They only care when it comes time to vote. Its not just FW that is going to be victim of this, there are other trust funds for specific things that are also going to be raided. Those funds were created to protect and preserve important things to people. I have created trust funds for my children, would it be ok for me to raid them to pay off a gambling debt? Seems like Bentley wants to do just that.
Never Trust Government
"You can be broke but you cant be poor." Ruthie-May Webster
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Re: State Parks to Close?
[Re: BirminghamBuck]
#1330363
04/17/15 02:15 PM
04/17/15 02:15 PM
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Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 2,777
Athens, GA
WildlifeBiologist
10 point
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10 point
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 2,777
Athens, GA
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AL State Parks Division lives on crumbs compared to most state agencies. For example, they drive hand-me-down gov't surplus vehicles and then run them until the wheels fall off. Greg Lein is doing an excellent job as director too. They are lucky to have him.
Micah 6:8
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