Much as I appreciate the board’s concern, I’m too much of a cynic to take them seriously.
I’ve the distinct impression that they’re only asking for the input of their staff in order to pay lip-service to the provincial government. That, and to put the onus on their staff to make the difficult decisions involved in budget-cutting, rather than do it themselves.
First of all, I am not equipped to produce the budget necessary to run x, nor do I feel comfortable in making a decision that will cost someone their job.
Second, should the budget manage to be trimmed accordingly, be it by staff or board, we risk setting a very dangerous precedent — the provincial government will be convinced that we can, despite all evidence to the contrary, function with such inadequate funding and face the risk of future cuts and reductions.
Thus, I am faced with two courses of action. Non-compliance and non-participation in the process, forcing the onus back upon the board. That, or doing my damnedest to help shape the budget in such a way that the impact registers the most amongst the public, in the hope of provoking an outcry for the necessary funds.
What fun.
Hell is my imagination as I ponder what could be and what might have been…