Sometimes bad decisions just keep coming back to bite you. Such is the case with The Fast Ferry in Rochester. From the D&C:

A developing plan to essentially refinance the debt left behind by the high-speed ferry, for example, is projected to save the city at least $1 million — and maybe several times that amount. Those savings would be spread out over the next decade and, while not enough to avoid significant job losses in the upcoming year, should deliver the largest single-year benefit in 2008-09.

Duffy said he is “holding out hope” but not expecting any last-minute relief in the state budget, expected to pass next week. He is expected to deliver his State of the City address on April 7, and his 2008-09 budget proposal on May 16.

Duffy went on to say:

“We are talking about consolidation. We are talking about departments joining together. We are talking about eliminating some services,” Duffy said. “You may see some departments not survive.

Duffy’s concern over any further state aid is supported by this article in today’s New York Times:

Like other states across the country, New York is facing a shortfall that is likely to only grow worse as the year continues. Even Albany’s most selfish and self-absorbed legislators cannot deny that. The voters certainly know what is happening to the value of their homes and their 401(k)’s.

The agreement that Mr. Paterson has worked out with leaders increases spending up to 4.5 percent. That seems high given the rumbling on the horizon. The new governor should make clear to legislators that any effort to hold out for more would be seen as irresponsible by the voters. He must also prepare the lawmakers — and the voters — for more cuts to come as revenues decline.

So, for now, it seems that things are going to get worse before they get better. Let’s just hope the “moving on” part Duffy spoke of doesn’t mean moving on to other states with better economic conditions. Some Ferry Tale…