Zero-Based Budgeting & Charlotte's Upcoming Election

Zero-based budgeting has long been a conservative issue when it comes to government spending. I myself became aware of this through Robert Pittenger, who advocated for zero-based budgeting while in the General Assembly and made it part of his campaign platform for Lt. Governor last year. While not successful, he raised the issue for others to take up as well.

Two candidates for Charlotte City Council At Large, Tariq Scott Bokhari and Matthew Ridenhour, support zero-based budgeting. Given the amount of money this city currently spends, it is a wise idea and if elected, be sure both of these candidates will work towards implementing this in the future.

A curveball of sorts came a week or so ago, when Democratic Mayoral candidate Anthony Foxx said he would support a zero-based budget review for the city if he becomes Mayor. This was a curveball because it's a traditionally conservative issue and Foxx knew this. In his attempt to look like a candidate that will cut spending, he knew full well calling for this would make some think twice about supporting John Lassiter. However, can you look at Foxx and say he will really be a supporter of this if he becomes Mayor? I don't.

Foxx has been on City Council since 2005 - did he call for zero-based budgeting then? I've looked around, I don't see it. What I see is someone that will say pretty much anything to get elected. Steal an issue to paint yourself as a moderate. Promise things to all parts of the city regardless of necessity or cost. It's quite a contradiction to say you support an idea like zero-based budgeting that is intended to cut government spending, while at the same time go around to different parts of this city and promise them something shiny and new in return for a vote. Anthony Foxx is talking out of both sides of his mouth and more people need to challenge him for doing so.