Lawmaker says plan to spend $20 million on a baseball stadium is irresponsible

Rep. Jerry Knowles (R-Berks/Schuylkill) today questioned Gov. Ed Rendell’s priorities after it was reported that the governor is committed to spending $20 million for a minor league baseball stadium in Lackawanna County.

“The governor just doesn’t get it.  It is outrageous that the governor is ready to spend $20 million for a baseball stadium when Pennsylvania is facing a deficit of more than $1 billion,” Knowles said.  “This is exactly the kind of wasteful, irresponsible spending we have seen from this governor since he took office, and it is exactly the kind of wasteful, irresponsible spending that has landed us in the financial crisis we now face.”

Knowles said government should focus its limited resources on critical priorities like lowering or holding the line on taxes, creating jobs, funding education, and providing health care.

“When times are good, he may have the resources available to consider spending projects like baseball stadiums and shrines commemorating current and former members of Congress,” Knowles continued.  “But right now, we need to tighten our belts and limit our use of taxpayer dollars to pay for essentials.  This baseball stadium does not qualify.”

Rep. Jerry Knowles
124th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
(717) 787-9029

www.RepKnowles.com

Contact:  Sean Yeakle

(717) 787-3406

www.pahousegop.com