Base Windfall Spending on Need

California’s decision last week, along with 45 other states, to accept the tobacco settlement negotiated with the major cigarette makers will bring $25 billion to the state, with a share of that going to the counties.

With no strings on these funds, there are, not surprisingly, plenty of suggestions already for how to spend Orange County’s $838 million.

County officials say they will review long-range spending priorities in January. If the tobacco deal is nailed down by then, the additional funds will be thrown into the mix.

Among the worthwhile priorities: the $33.5-million design and construction of the Theo Lacy Branch Jail expansion, the $55.4-million expansion of Juvenile Hall, and construction of another facility for neglected and abused children. The Orangewood home has no room to expand and is often overcrowded.

Supervisors should be able to divide what amounts to a windfall based on need, rather than rigid formulas. County officials also should remember the source of the money--tobacco companies.

Health officials rightly are seeking funds for programs to keep children from becoming addicted to cigarettes. A Health Care Agency official said spending on tobacco-related illnesses and deaths in Orange County is estimated at $500 million a year. That includes medical treatment, lost hours, insurance shortfalls and funeral expenses.