I read in the Chicago Tribune today that the Aldermen have voted 48-0 to approve a 4.72 billion budget for the yr. 2003. (In Chicago) Calling for about 200 city workers being laid off while adwarding themselves annual pay increases for the next 4 yrs. I guess I am a little confused here. What exactly does an Alderman do? Are they that important that they have to lay off 200 workers and deserve an annual raise for the next 4 Yrs? I wonder what the annual salary is for an Alderman in Chicago. And don't they have other careers besides being an alderman or alderwoman? Am I wrong in thinking there is something wrong here? Would like your thoughts on this one. Maybe I will learn something. As they saying goes you learn something new everyday!

Momof3, you seem to be surprised that politicians in Chicago don't necessarily look out for the people first.

Not to say that cutting back a few city employees is exactly bad. Who knows, these could have been people on the ghost payroll. After all, it is the city of Chicago.

Chicago's had Betty Loren-Maltese, they've had the guy who took the "campaign donation" in a burger (yes, between the bun), and now they've got another group of politicians legislating a higher salary at the City of Chicago, Inc.

Man, I miss Chicago politics.

Mike

Mike I am not surprised at any big cities politics. But I am serious when I ask just what is their salary and what exactly do they do? Are they really more important than workers who keep the city running when there are things like heavy snowfalls? When the water main broke and flooded houses and totallly demolished serveral cars. And that is just 2 of many things that can happen in a big city. So what we call them (Aldermen or Women) to fix the problem? Yeah I think that is the answer! Lay off 200 city workers so they can get their raise.