Ravitch Said State's Fiscal Problems Can Be Solved

The state's fiscal problems can be solved, but it will not be easy, according to Richard Ravitch.

The League of Women Voters of Westchester held its annual meeting Thursday, welcoming the ex-lieutenant governor as their luncheon speaker.

The former Albany official was welcomed with warm applause to the Scarsdale Woman’s Club’s Rowsley Cottage. Ravitch has decades of experience as a successful business leader and public official with the last office held being that of the state's No. 2 position. He was appointed in 2009 by David Paterson after the resignation of Eliot Spitzer. His appointment was challenged for months by then Attorney General Andrew Cuomo.

During his tenure, Ravitch opted to receive only $1 in salary. He was tapped by Paterson to improve the state budgeting process that has historically been riddled with blown deadlines and inflationary bills.

But Thursday, he presented the local chapters of the League of Women Voters with a sobering view of New York State’s fiscal crisis. Ravitch is currently composing a book about the fiscal crisis facing the states, giving him a unique perspective on the topic.

Ravitch said he didn't want to scare people with what he had to say.

“But I want it to be clear that we can make it better, but it will be painful. Solving the problems will involve our elected officials to do things that may not get them re-elected,” Ravitch said.

League members listened closely as Ravitch outlined the difficulties involved with the state’s budget, which include federal mandates like Medicare that automatically renew and increase to meet the needs of those they serve.

After his presentation, Ravitch opened the floor to questions from members. A member of the league was quick to ask about the proposed 2 percent tax cap.

“The property tax cap is a clear reflection of what the elected officials consider important. Is it good government? It’s horrendous government,” said Ravitch. “It can stunt the growth of communities and kill certain programs.”

Ravitch also expressed interest in using a proper graduated income scale that could help states make up the money needed to fund programs and basic needs.

“Officials have to have the importance of role of taxes explained to them and how cutting them will effect all the people,” said Ravitch.

But Ravitch made sure to add that certain federal programs have to be changed in order to alleviate the stress on states.

“We could modify the system in order to have public employees help by contributing to their health care,” said Ravitch.

In response to a question about single-payer health care, the former Albany leader wishes for a change that has to happen at a national level. If not, it will lead to a whole different set of problems if states try to tackle it individually.

League members then posed a question that threw the former lieutenant governor into a moment of pensive thought: “Where do you see America in 50 years?”

After a few seconds of thought, Ravitch responded. “We are going through a unique set of circumstances. But the American spirit has a way to meet these challenges head on. We can make it through if we work together and make the tough choices,” he said.

Margo Khouri from Bronxville said Ravitch outlined a slow and steady path for the country to work on.

“Now, let's see if we can find a way to fight for issues that affect us all,” she said.