On May 21, I called my city councilor to express opposition to the funding cuts to the Auburn School Department.

Joe DeFilipp, my councilor, first stated that there was no budget cut. I explained that I understood that the School Department was getting the same level of funding as last year, but, considering the cost increases, the same amount of funding would not go as far and cuts would have to be made. This, in my opinion, is a funding cut.

Mr. DeFilipp stated that the city had limited funds. I replied that maybe we could have done with less parking garages. At this point, he exploded!

I listened in stunned silence as he went on an angry tirade, stating basically that I was wrong to even question this decision of the City Council. I listened for another few minutes as he proceeded to yell at me.

He left me with the feeling that my opinion had no value. The City Council made a decision and that was all that I needed to know.

I believe that because most of our city councilors have lost sight of whom they serve.

I would like to remind the entire City Council, and especially Mr. DeFilipp, that their job is to serve us. Part of that service entails making us feel that our views and opinions have value and will be honestly considered.

It seems apparent that at the time, that was not the case.

Charles E. MacDonald,

Auburn

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