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Scal,

You say that it can't be cut, cut , cut. But the fact of the matter is, that it is give, give, give, and has been for decades. Even this year, with the city facing millions in deficit, raises are planned for all, and the taxpayers, we get the maximum tax increase. How can that happen?

Pertaining to this immediate issue, the documentation which came directly from the city, clearly indicates that the unused sick pay system is broken, is coordinated, and has been gamed for years. These are city documents. In addition, if you were to read the union contract, you'll see that the language is so loose that it is open to be abused.

To simplify the issue - if you have perfect attendance and do not call out sick during the year, you can cash out the maximum sick pay of 15 days. (which by the way I think is ridiculous) There are numerous examples where men have taken multiple regular sick days, (not IOD) and have still been paid for 15 days due to allowing them to accumulate in excess of the maximum amount set forth in the contract. No checks and balances in the department.

These types of coordinated blatant abuses need to end. Its just that simple. The city is in a catastrophic financial situation. Think about this, 2 years ago the budget was 298 million. Now it is 316 million. 18 million increase in 2 years. Do they pick up your garbage more often? Are your roads any better? Are your taxes lower? No to the above, however, we closed down a senior center because we couldnt afford a new roof, community police program cut, senior services cut, assets declining, liabilities increasing, cost of health insurance rising with no additional co pays from employees, generous benefits, etc...

What are the parameters to continue to give raises? Time? What about the fiscal wellness of the city? Is that factored into the equation? No.

By the way, city solicitor Peter Ruggiero should be terminated immediately for allowing to enter into a contract that contains language which clearly takes advantage of the taxpayers. We have no one at the negotiating table that represents the taxpayer. The time for a complete forensic audit is overdue. This issue is just one example which justifies the audit.