Public employees blamed unfairly

Some very difficult decisions are gong to be made in the very, very near future by our legislators. I ask that consideration be given to those presently or those who will be receiving public pension benefits in the future. The recipients are citizens, constituents, family members, neighbors, friends and not some alien group.

We pay taxes, contribute to campaigns, add to the gross national product, volunteer, educate, protect and care for you and your families. We also vote. We are not “that other group” of people (that many seem to interpret that we want something for nothing — on the contrary we have and are giving all for years).

Please remember that as the vote on pensions is taken. We have and do pay our portion of what has and is required to maintain our pensions. We have and always will pay for our insurance. The problem has arisen because the state legislators have made decisions over the years to avoid paying the state’s portion. It is pretty much like the individual that avoids a credit card bill to have money for a vacation.

Those receiving public pensions do not want to saddle those in the private sector with exorbitant bills either. Those may be our family members. We are all in this together. When will we be advised that the legislators are foregoing their perks, pensions, etc.? The public pension recipients never had the option of bonus’ or other perks. Everyone must “tighten their habits” but let’s not do it on the backs of public employees (past and present).

Perhaps some pet projects need to be delayed or make sure employees work a full day for a full day’s pay.

Martha Sullivan

Lake Zurich