[widgeon13]

Originally Posted by Moses

A little more about Vallejo, a town on the brink of bankruptcy...

On May 6, 2008, the City Council voted 7-0 to file for Chapter 9 bankruptcy, becoming the largest city to do so ever in California. [6] Stephanie Gomes, Vallejo City Councilwoman largely blames exorbitant salaries and benefits for Vallejo firefighters and police officers. Reportedly, salaries and benefits for public safety workers account for 80 percent of Vallejo's general operating budget. 98 firefighters made more than $100,000 and 10 made more than $200,000 including overtime. [7]

Two contributing factors have also been cited: the aforementioned high salaries, and current and future pension outlays, payments of which are likely not sustainable if bankruptcy is to be avoided. [8]. (From Wikipedia)

Is this the fault of the firemen and police for asking for the benefits or the council for approving the packages?