I am writing to express a concern I have after attending the Auburn City Council meeting that took place earlier this month. I do not feel that the council actively listened to the people in attendance. I found it sad that a teacher had to ask that they look at her so she knew she was being listened to and acknowledged. The fact that she felt the need to remind them of manners reminds me why I will be looking for fresh faces on the council next year.

The council has slashed budgets concerning our safety by denying the fire and police departments funding they need to run efficiently, not to mention the fact that our city backed out on a legal, binding contract with the fire department.

Now that councilors have jeopardized our safety, they are going after our educational system.

The schools have not received the attention they should from our city leaders. The schools are in need of repair. Some buildings are falling apart. My niece has windows in her classroom she cannot open. Some buildings have carpets that are more than 20 years old. The schools have had to cut teachers, programs and stipends.

Are the council members experts on education? They are not listening to the school committee members’ or the superintendent’s recommendations. They are not listening to others period.

If this group is so interested in cutting budgets, they need to start with their own salaries.

Donna Harris, Auburn