FY-2011Executive Budget

GovernorBrad Henry

February 1, 2010

Feb. 1, 2010To the Citizens of the Great State of Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Legislature:I am pleased to submit for your consideration the FY-2011 executive budget. Asrequired by state law, I have presented a balanced budget. The recommendations in thisbudget take into account the current revenue crisis while it attempts to protect theconsiderable achievements we have made in education, economic development,healthcare and public safety.The global recession has impacted Oklahoma, as it has all states. Challengingeconomic times demand the fiscal sacrifice and restraint reflected in this budget. Surgicalcuts in state agencies and programs are necessary, but it is critical that such reductions donot impair the core functions of state government.In addition, we must look beyond the current recession and build on the progressbuilt in recent years. Economic growth does not arise from happenstance. It requireshard work, bold vision and the tenacity to remain focused. Subsequently, innovativeprograms such as the EDGE Research Endowment and Insure Oklahoma must beprotected and strengthened to ensure continued success in the years to come. It isimportant that the crisis of the moment not erode Oklahoma’s ability to prosper once afull economic recovery is underway.I ask the Legislature and the Citizens of Oklahoma to support this agenda for astrong and prosperous Oklahoma. I am confident that all Oklahomans can agree on thesegoals to achieve excellence and carry out state forward.Sincerely,Brad HenryGovernor

February 1, 2010Governor Henry:Please accept this, your executive budget for the FY-2011 budget year. The budget isbalanced as required by law.The budgets of all state agencies, boards and commissions were thoroughly reviewed inthe preparation of this budget. Staff of the Budget Division of OSF, the Secretary of Finance and Revenue and I met with directors of major state agencies to examine andanalyze agency programs and expenditures. State agency administrators and their staff provided information necessary for this rigorous budget review. They also madesuggestions to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the delivery of services bytheir agencies. Our examination included a review of management efficiencies andinnovations, alternative funding methods, tax policies, expenditures and revenueenhancement proposals.Thank you for all of your time and attention in the development of the budget. To othersinvolved in this process, I extend my appreciation for their input. I also want to thank analysts with the Budget Division for their diligence, hard work and dedication.Sincerely,Michael Clingman, DirectorOffice of State Finance