Gov. Gavin Newsom and the California Legislature last week reached a deal on the state budget, just in time for the start of the new fiscal year.
The $310.8 billion plan covers a nearly $32 billion budget deficit by cutting some spending — about $8 billion — and delaying others, including a $750 million payment to the federal government for pandemic-related unemployment insurance debts.
Statewide, the budget includes a lifeline for public transit agencies struggling to survive following steep declines in riders during the pandemic and allows transit agencies to use some of the $5.1 billion in funding over the next three years for operations.
But Republican leaders have criticized the plan as unsustainable, arguing it would leave the state with projected multi-billion dollar deficits over the next few years.
As part of the state budget process, Orange County legislators secured millions for various district projects ranging from public safety technology to transportation services.
Here are some ways Orange County residents could see an impact through the budget.
Arts
Several million dollars will go toward Orange County museums.
A total of $250,000 is set for the expansion and improvement of the Orange County Museum of Art’s educational public programs, as requested by Sen. Dave Min, D-Irvine.
And $4.5 million will be given to the Fullerton Museum Center, money that will “allow the museum to make capital improvements to its facilities, to include renovations to its classroom spaces, exhibition area, auditorium, conference room and outdoor patio, according to Sen. Josh Newman’s office. The funding will also be used to “increase accessibility and accommodate performances, community activities and fundraising events” as well as hire more permanent and part-time staff.
Additionally, $2 million is set for the Pacific Symphony, the resident orchestra of the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall located in Costa Mesa, east of South Coast Plaza….
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