The real problem is over-generous pensions for civil service employees, crushing municipal budgets around the country. But it is becoming obvious that we the People are feeding too many mouths with our tax dollars. Police and Fire Departments are beginning to shed officers as the budget crises loom ever-larger. Next they will be laying off teachers.
This will not solve the budgetary problems in union towns. The unions will force the cities into bankruptcy and take whatever the judge will give them, or they will make VERY heavy concessions on pension and health care plan benefits. These are the only alternatives for a LOT of cities around the country. Vallejo was only the first of many.
Note: if the civil servants would all agree together, nobody need be laid off. Lower salaries and slashed benefits, especially at the highest level, could theoretically fix the problem. Don't hold your breath waiting for this kind of solution, though.
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