To the editor:

I have a nominee for the biggest understatement of 2024 from local government budgeting. From the Journal-World of July 1, 2024, regarding the costs to install new charging stations for two new EV fire trucks: “The cost for upgrading the electrical load at the stations and putting in the charging stations is estimated to exceed $100,000. A more precise estimate wasn’t provided in the memo.” From the same source on Dec. 18, 2024: “[The City Commission] Authorized a $995,000 contract with Schneider Electric Buildings Americas Inc. for electrical infrastructure improvements that will support two hybrid fire trucks.” They must be using the same budgeting process as the chancellor has for the costs (and schedule) for the new Stadium Gateway. What’s +885% among friends and neighbors?

Steve Bradt,

Lawrence