Modesto, CA - City, don't cave in to union's demands

MODESTO BEE

EDITORIAL

"As tough and as tight as times are for state and local governments, most people predict that things are going to get worse before they get better.

At almost every level -- from the city of Modesto to Stanislaus County to the state -- officials expect 2010-11 budgets to be even tighter than those for 2009-10, which are being put together now. Not only are revenues expected to further erode, but public entities will have to allot larger amounts to pension funds.

Given that grim outlook, elected officials should not agree to contracts with employee unions that will limit the governing boards' ability to control spending as needed -- including any provisions that would restrict or prohibit layoffs."

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