Delaware governor plans community conversations on budget

(AP) – Gov. John Carney is embarking on a series of community meetings to talk to Delawareans about the state's budget challenges.

Carney said Thursday that the meetings are designed to both educate the public and to hear from residents on what they believe should be priorities for state government.

Based on recent revenue projections, the appropriation limit for the upcoming fiscal year is $201 million less than this year's general fund appropriation.

With additional obligations for Medicaid, school enrollment growth and debt service expected next year, budget officials have suggested the real shortfall, compared to the current budget, is about $350 million.

The first meeting is Monday morning at Timothy's on the Riverfront in Wilmington.

Delawareans also can submit their ideas online at the governor's website or by emailing budgetresetstate.de.us.