This article first appeared in the Tulsa World
by: BARBARA HOBEROCK World Capitol Bureau
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
3/25/2009 3:18:40 AM
OKLAHOMA
CITY — Gov. Brad Henry on Tuesday told members of a panel that was
formed to oversee spending of the state's $2.6 billion in federal
stimulus dollars to keep lawmakers informed.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Coordinating Council held
its second meeting to discuss intricate details of applying for grants,
spending the funding, and accounting for how it is spent.
Henry said Oklahoma should be on the forefront in seeking funding for early childhood development, CareerTech and energy.
State Treasurer Scott Meacham said the Legislature will need to be involved in policy decisions regarding how funds are spent.
"Make sure the Legislature is fully informed and participates in any policy decisions," he said.
Members of the panel, which include Cabinet secretaries and
agency leaders, have formed working groups to determine how the funds
will be spent and what grants the state can seek. Members gave an
overview of their efforts.
All records produced by the council are open, Henry said. He directed panel members to send copies of reports to lawmakers.
State Auditor and Inspector Steve Burrage advised: "Know where
the money came from, where you spent it, and why. Document. Document.
Document."
Posted on
Wed, March 25, 2009
by Crystal Drwenski
filed under