Contrary to the statement made by city of Hartford spokeswoman Sarah Barr [letter, Nov. 7, "Times Call For Tough Decisions"], Hartford's public service workers have stepped up to the plate time and again to help the city navigate its way out of economic problems.

The most recent example took place this summer, when Hartford library workers made concessions to help save library services and reopen two branches shut down by the Perez administration.

Our unions together represent hundreds of public service workers who live and pay taxes in Hartford. Our members are among the lowest-paid in the city, but we understand the severity of the economic downturn and its impact on local budgets and critical public services. It is precisely in a time of crisis that the Perez administration should listen to the front-line workers who clean our streets, keep our buildings up to code, maintain our schools and do so much more.

As public service workers, we are frustrated by Mayor Eddie Perez's scattershot approach to closing the budget deficit and identifying economic jump-starts. We believe it is irresponsible to balance budgets by cutting vital public services with little or no regard for the corresponding impact on city residents, property owners, renters and businesses.

We call on city leaders to work with us to ensure delivery of top-notch public services while identifying the massive waste and inefficiencies that have worsened the current crisis.

Clarke KingPresident, Local 1716, Council 4 AFSCME, Hartford

Elizabeth KavanahPresident, Hartford Professional Employees, CSEA/SEIU Local 2001, Hartford