GOODBYE, $80 MILLION… Take your site and shove it. That’s essentially what the state told Monterey County officials on Sept. 18 when the local leaders asked for a six-month extension to find a location for a reentry facility. The prison board’s rejection sends the county back to its accounting books to replace the $80 million grant from the state that would have expanded the county’s overcrowded jail. The reentry facility’s failure also means parolees who return to the county each year can’t count on receiving rehabilitation and job training. But then again it’s not best to depend on the state for anything– other than a late budget. [ZS]

BUDGET LIVING… California finally has a state budget. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed the $144.5 billion spending plan after an 85-day stalemate– the longest in state history. He also used his veto pen to cut $510 million, eliminating some welfare money and rental assistance for the elderly in addition to methamphetamine and HIV-prevention programs, which, needless to say, legislative Dems aren’t too happy about. Still, the guv touted the 2008-09 budget– and a plan to reform the process (changes to the rainy-day fund, and a plan to borrow $10 billion from future lottery revenue), which will require voter approval. “These budget reforms, when approved by voters, will finally put California’s budget on a path toward long-term fiscal stability,” Schwarzenegger said in a statement. Yes, this means another election. It will likely happen in June 2009. Check out the state’s new spending plan at www.ebudget.ca.gov/. [JL]

PRETTYING UP SALINAS… Salinas Code Enforcement officers are on the prowl again, this time cracking down on so-called “unsightly” A-frame business signs on sidewalks. Although merchants probably have enough problems already (with the recession and all), the city maintains that officers are simply tidying up streets for the sake of public safety and aesthetics. The only problem: Not all business districts are treated equally. Officers will make some exceptions for Oldtown merchants while Alisal business owners get the shaft. To report overgrown weeds and tacky streamers (even if it means narcing on your neighbor) call code enforcement, 758-7157. [ZS]