To the editor:

It appears community leaders are not in touch with economic conditions. Many economists predict “tepid” growth over the next two years, at best. Some say we will see another recession next year, with housing values dropping another 20 percent or so — and the economic doldrums will continue for more than just the next two years. Job growth remains flat. Too many existing homes aren’t selling. Fewer building permits are being issued for new construction. For all of the federal stimulus (borrowing), little has been accomplished, except pushing us closer to insolvency.

Yet their answer is to raise tuition fees, tax rates, service fees and other costs to the consumer. Where is the push to control costs, provide just the basic government service, and live within our means? If our leaders can’t figure out how to get by on what they have, we need new city leaders, school board members, legislators and Board of Regents members. The private sector has gone without raises, tightening its belt to withstand economic pressures. It’s past time for the public sector to do the same. Working for the city, county, state and the school district doesn’t entitle one to a job and generous benefits.

Consumers make financial choices every day to keep afloat. The public moaning about making painful choices rings hollow. Trying to keep service levels static in the face of diminishing revenues by raising taxes is the wrong approach. Limiting government is a better choice in these economic times.