Better deal to work in the public sector

There is a vast difference between how the private sector and government/educators have fared during the recent economic downturn. Private sector has seen job layoffs, salary/benefit cuts, jobs outsourced, longer work hours (for those working), retirement benefits slashed - every aspect of economic life diminished.

Government and educators - salary increases, benefit increases, job security, in plain terms the good life.

Let's narrow in on educators. They continue to receive salary increases, pension increases, job tenure while being funded by the taxpayers. Private sector - when was your last 15-week vacation - this is what teachers receive. Can you retire at age 55 with 80 percent of your salary as a pension benefit. Is your job protected by tenure?

For those in DuPage County - you pay your property taxes on June 1 and September 1. Where are the teachers during this time - on vacation. Look at your property tax bill and see how many items are devoted to governmental/education pensions. If you have a teacher as a friend, neighbor, etc. ask them why they have 15 weeks vacation, job tenure, can retire at 80 percent of salary at age 55.

Call, write or e-mail your local school board, local government officials. Don't expect answers that make sense. Their objective is the status quo, business as usual, while you pay with higher property taxes. Illinois is one the most debt-laden states - how much of that is educator/government pension obligations?

Robert Melbye

Lisle