Democrats Cool To Privatization Public Workers Deserve Say In Services Shift, Candidates Say

Private companies should not be allowed to bid for state services unless state employees receive the collective bargaining rights, three Democratic candidates for governor said Monday.

Appearing at a forum in Spokane, the trio said they oppose efforts to “privatize” government jobs under current laws.

Conservatives have long maintained that everything from prison management to road work could be cheaper if private companies bid for the jobs.

King County Executive Gary Locke said he was concerned that the way private contractors reduce costs is by using workers who have less health insurance and benefits. “I do not support contracting out unless it’s been agreed to by public employees,” Locke said.

Former U.S. Rep. Jay Inslee agreed, but said contracting out government services is a way to “balance the budget.”

State Sen. Nita Rinehart said the proposals “come from people who are anti-government.”

Seattle Mayor Norm Rice was unable to attend the forum, sponsored by the Warren Magnuson Democratic Club. But spokeswoman Judith Gilmore said he, too, would oppose the practice unless state workers had more collective bargaining rights.

The three candidates visiting Spokane also called for improvements in the state’s public schools. Rinehart said schools need to emphasize “skills security” so that students can adapt to changing job climates. They should also expand tests to be sure students can write and solve problems as well as read and do math.

Locke said schools should provide lifelong educational opportunities, require greater discipline and have “zero tolerance” for students’ criminal behavior.

Inslee said the schools need to teach a new set of the three Rs - respect, responsibility and results.

“We ought to put schools first, not professional football stadiums,” said Inslee.

Last fall, the Legislature provided ways for public funds to be funneled into a new stadium for the Seattle Mariners baseball team, and the Seattle Seahawks may request help to fix or replace the Kingdome.

, DataTimes