I, For One...

This is the time most cities struggle with getting their 2009 budgets approved.

As you know, I work for a city. Chippewa Falls, to be exact. Something the "residents" may not know, is that they can be a part of the budget process by attending public hearings (by law posted in the legal newspaper and City Hall). They can also request a copy of the budget. It's public information.

Although the 2009 budget is nearing adoption at Chippewa Falls, I'd like to respond to some commentary found in the Chippewa Herald regarding City employees who are part of a Union.

FACTS:

When I was hired, the position was a Union job. I had no choice, and if I had, I would rather not.

I make $15.19 an hour plus health benefits (also public record).

I currently pay over $600.00 a month for health insurance. The City pays the rest.

In January 2009, I will receive a pay increase of 1%. In January 2009, I will pay an additional percentage of my health insurance.

You do the math. At this writing, I am not sure how much my health insurance will increase, but I do know it is way more than the 1% I will receive in a pay raise. Did you do that math? That means my take-home pay will be less than before I got the increase.

I empathize with all those folks who are going to or have lost their jobs. I am grateful to have a job. I love public service and would like to think I am pretty darned good at what I do.

For the record...I WOULD forego the pay increase. I would vote to open the contract and freeze wages. I support closing City Hall one day a week to save money for the taxpayers.

I, For One am saying I love my job, the public I serve and would do what it takes to get through the financial woes our country is experiencing.

I'm just saying...