Workshop participants are divided into small groups and given information on the federal government’s income and expenses.  They then face the daunting task of proposing a federal budget, based on their established priorities.  As a mini-Congress, each group has to decide which programs to increase, freeze, or cut, and whether or not to raise, maintain, or cut taxes.   

"This workshop is a great way for me to learn firsthand what your spending and cutting priorities are and also for you to see more of the choices that I wrestle with in Congress,” said Smith.  “One of my most important priorities is to improve the relationship citizens have with their government.  In many ways, government has gotten too big, too burdensome, and is not efficient and responsive enough to the needs of the people.  I intend to spend some time this year looking at ways to make the federal government more accountable, more streamlined and more effective and I’d like your input.  Please come on February 22nd and help me better represent your priorities and your choices.” 

9th District residents interested in attending the workshop or seeking more information should contact Sean Eagan in Smith’s Tacoma office at (253) 593-6600. 

Members of the media are encouraged to attend and should RSVP separately from the general public by calling Katharine Lister at (202) 226-8454. 
  

WHAT:  9th District Budget Workshop with Congressman Adam Smith 

WHEN:  Saturday, February 22, 2002 
10:00a.m. to 11:30a.m. 

WHERE:  Renton Technical College, Building I 
   3000 NE Fourth Street, Renton  

CONTACT: 9th District residents should contact Congressman Smith's Tacoma Office at (253) 593-6600.  Media should contact Katharine Lister at (202) 226-8454.