"I remember those great days when we were at $176 million before the Reagan Revolution came to town"

The quote by Norm Dicks refers to a period of financial and political history in the United States, especially in relation to the changes brought about by the policies and impact of the Reagan administration, which began in 1981. Norm Dicks, a previous U.S. Congressman, reminisces about a time before these significant changes-- particularly, a time when specific monetary conditions or budget plans were at a level of $176 million, which he refers to as "great days."

The reference to "$176 million" suggests a financial context, possibly connecting to federal budget plans, expenditures, or allotments for certain programs or departments that Dicks saw positively. This figure represents a period before the sweeping changes related to Ronald Reagan's presidency, commonly described as the "Reagan Revolution." This age was defined by significant shifts in economic policy, consisting of tax cuts, deregulation, decreases in government costs on social programs, and a focus on free-market principles. Fans argue these procedures spurred economic development and curbed inflation, while critics often highlight increased earnings inequality and cuts to social services.

Dicks's use of the term "fantastic days" shows a nostalgic view of the pre-Reagan age, suggesting he viewed those times as more beneficial or helpful, at least in the context he is describing. This might imply that the policies of the Reagan administration resulted in modifications that he deemed destructive to particular programs, communities, or fiscal stability.

Furthermore, this declaration reflects wider disputes about the legacy of Reagan's policies. It encapsulates the viewpoint of those who feel that there were losses or negative impacts due to the shift toward a more conservative financial agenda. For Dicks and like-minded people, the "terrific days" symbolize a period of missed out on opportunity or stability, eclipsed by the transformative, and in their view, often disruptive impact of the Reagan age.