July 25, 2012
Having read your recent article about the problems experienced by the Department of Public Works' water pipe repairs, I feel funding for the department this should be a top city priority ("Water renewal is long overdue," July 22).
As mayor, Martin O'Malley transferred millions of dollars from DPW funds to the Baltimore City schools. After reading about the test scores for Baltimore City's schools, I don't see where the money has improved the children's education. Maybe their teachers are overpaid and under-worked.
I suggest schools CEO Andrés Alonso give up his $20,000 annual salary increases, and his chauffeur could donate part of his overtime pay, which equals his yearly salary. Mr. Alonso could also curtail some North Avenue office redecorating projects.
With the money saved he could have paid back DPW instead of suggesting giving teachers 15 percent bonus pay during a mayoral election year.
The money spent on the mayor's telephone system also could have helped DPW. Then again, it also could have helped keep some recreation centers from being closed.
Vivian Vann, Glen Burnie
