California's new state parks director was sworn in Friday amid hopeful applause and assurances of fiscal integrity.
Anthony L. Jackson, 63, a retired Marine Corps major general, takes over amid turmoil in the department after officials were discovered to have hidden $54 million in two special funds – even as the state moved to close 70 parks to achieve $22 million in savings. Former Director Ruth Coleman resigned and others were fired or reassigned. Two investigations are ongoing.
"I want to operate the department with absolute integrity, and that will be a watchword of mine," Jackson said. "I want to win the trust of the people of the state of California. I want people to know every nickel, every dime will be honestly handled within the department."
Jackson, who retired a year ago after 36 years in the Marines, said that in January he bought an RV as a retirement gift to himself. Since then, he and his wife have logged 10,000 miles visiting state and national parks in California.
"The natural resources of the state of California, the beauty, our ecological concern, the way we are a state which leads is something I've had great pride in," Jackson said. "I'm really kind of stunned I'm in this position. But I'm also exhilarated."
– Matt Weiser
BUDGET WATCH
California State University's incoming chancellor requested a 10 percent pay cut – and this week he got it. Timothy P. White was to receive the same pay as the outgoing chancellor: a $421,500 salary plus a $30,000 supplement. Trustees approved a $380,000 salary plus the supplement. White, 63, comes to CSU after four years at the helm of UC Riverside.
– Laurel Rosenhall
WORTH REPEATING
"I look forward to finally having the opportunity to spend time with my family and seven grandkids."
REP. BRIAN BILBRAY, Carlsbad Republican, conceding the 52nd Congressional District race Friday to his Democratic challenger, Scott Peters, former president of the San Diego City Council
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