A costly golf game and other firn

This week I received a phone call and a letter, both questioning the legitimacy of the city's budget crisis, or at least the wisdom of our officials. We've spoken often about the crisis, so you know how badly the city leaders say our financial conditions are. In fact, City Manager Jim Ruth met with his managers July 25 and told them to come up with ways to cut budgets. But that's not what caught the attention of the readers. The meeting was early in the day. Afterward, the officials adjourned to the annual golf party with Mouseland folks, this year at Anaheim Hills Country Club. The letter-writer sent me a small article about the golf game. This person wanted to know, understandably, what budget crisis there is? Obviously, the leaders can still afford time off for a round of golf. The caller also thought it seemed strange, and wondered if those who played have given up a day's pay and forked over money for green fees. After all, the caller said, why should taxpayers pay for employees to play golf on city time? "That's just about the way you feel when you know about something like that transpiring," the caller said. "They meet in time of crisis on fiscal matters and cut everything 25 percent. But, let's go play golf before the day is gone." The caller also praised Mayor Pro Tem Bill Ehrle, who changed his vote and killed the 4 percent utilities tax. "He deported himself like a truly effective politician," the caller said. "He realized the vox populi had spoken and as a representative, he represented them Speaking of the 4 percent utilities tax, I received a letter on that also. Ehrle may have been able to kill the tax, with help from councilmen Tom Daly and Irv Pickler, but that doesn't mean we won't be paying more for the same after all. The city's Public Utilities Department, which gives greedy a new meaning, is holding a public hearing on electric rates at 7 p.m. Wednesday in the city council chambers. Yes, it's true. They'll be raising the rates about 4.S percent. The hearing is for people to speak for or against it, and I hope there's a large turnout. Do not, though, think what you say will do anything other than allow you to get it off your chest. The utility budget is built based on this increase, and there's no way they will listen to people who don't want it. How about a demonstration, just to get our feelings known? I suggest we all meet there carrying candles. Anyone interested in joining me should call me Monday at 634-1567. Finally, a non-controversial item. The Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus comes to town with the annual parade at 1 p.m. Monday. The parade starts at the railroad tracks on Lewis Street, near The Bulletin and the Coors plant. It goes to Katella Avenue and heads down to the Convention Center. Among the parade highlights, I'm glad to say, will be me and my friend. Mayor Fred Hunter, riding on elephants. I'll be the one wearing a hat.