Coming to a Community Near You

Here is yet another example of what slashing government expenditures REALLY looks like. The City of Camden, NJ -- plagued with one of the worst crime rates in the country -- was forced to layoff nearly 50% of their police force! The fire department lost nearly 1/3 of their workforce and the city prosecutor's office looks to be next in line.

Both the Republican and Democratic Parties claim to be "tough on crime," but it's hard to live up to such rhetoric when each group supports policies that takes law enforcement OFF the streets. On a "positive" note, I'm certain that various elements within the city -- drug dealers, pimps, crooks -- are applauding this kind of move!!

Why is Camden forced to take such drastic steps?

Camden has struggled with budget shortfalls for years and is heavily dependent on state aid. Just $21,000,000 of the $138,803,887 budget comes from local tax revenue. Republican Gov. Chris Christie sharply cut funding to municipalities after vetoing legislation to raise taxes on the state’s millionaires. The recession has led to lower tax revenue nationwide. With stimulus funds running out and governors from both parties lining up against tax increases, state shortfalls are hitting cash-strapped municipalities hard. In a deindustrialized city like Camden, the recession has only compounded deep social and economic problems decades in the making...

It may be Camden today, but don't be surprised if it happens in your locale tomorrow!