Hartford public service workers are uniting to confront the economic crisis gripping our capital city. Members of Hartford's municipal unions have formed a coalition to work with elected officials, community leaders, and the private sector to help turn the local economy around while meeting the increased need for quality public services.

Our unions' members have sacrificed to protect public services and help the city navigate its way out of economic challenges; we are willing to sacrifice. However, the city’s public service workers believe any sacrifice must be part of a comprehensive solution that makes things better, not worse, for the people they serve.

The Hartford Public Services coalition believes it is irresponsible to continue balancing the city budget by cutting vital services without regard for the impact on residents, property owners, renters and businesses. We did not create the problems afflicting Hartford, but we intend to be part of a positive solution.

Members of the coalition's unions call on the city leaders to join us in a spirit of collaboration and cooperation. Our goal is to work with the Mayor and the Court of Common Council, as well as small businesses, community advocates, and other stakeholders to:

• Identify waste and inefficiencies before cutting services that impact residents and businesses at the neighborhood and community level;
• Lead by example in job growth and development by prioritizing front-line service positions over bureaucratic, patronage positions;
• Ensure the city's public service workers have a voice on the job in decisions impacting delivery of vital services and needs; and
• Lobby jointly for desperately needed municipal aid, improved healthcare options and our fair share of federal stimulus dollars.

Hartford's municipal employees have always understood that tough economic times are when the people they serve need public services the most. Members of the unions oppose deep cuts that will only make problems worse, and stand ready to help make things better for the city by delivering reliable, quality services that Hartford's residents and businesses count on.