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From: JReynolds@bexar.org
[mailto:JReynolds@bexar.org]
Sent: Wednesday, January 19, 2005 8:24 AM To: bryan.wilson@courts.state.tx.us Subject: Formula Grant Procedure Person Making Submission: John Reynolds, CPA
Comment: After some discussion we can not come up with a formula that would distribute available funding any better than what is currently being done. The current formula seems to work fine. It insures that all that qualify for funding receive something. As long as you have small counties and large counties there will always be some perceived inequality. Basing the formula on a per capita allowance is probably the best way to make the allocation. The only element of the formula that might be considered for alteration would be the floor.
The floor could be allocated in an inverse manner based on capitation. For example: Population less than 75,000 but greater than 0 = $25,000 Population less than 125,000 but greater than 75,001 = $20,000 Population less than 200,000 but greater than 125,001 = $15,000 Population less than 500,000 but greater than 200,001 = $10,000 Population greater than 500,001 = $5,000
The remainder of the available funds would be distributed on a per capita basis. This change would have no effect on Bexar County's current allocation.
The thought here is that the larger the county the more personnel and internal funds that should be available for creative thinking, and there should be other grant funding for this creative thinking - ideas and concepts that can be put into place to break the mold. By providing greater funding for the smaller counties through the formula, then maybe they too would take the incentive and begin working towards "incentive grant" funds.
There is a better mouse trap out there - it is in the forest somewhere - the forest happens to be our legal system and no one seems to want to explore changing something they are comfortable with and "ain't broke." No one seems to want to say "Why not?" Thank you for the opportunity to comment. |