Saturday, Sept. 2, 2006 | Re: “Forced to Pay MEA Fees”. So, let me get this straight, Dianne. You blame Judie Italiano for the under funding and you believe she and other “architects” received some benefit beyond what you will receive? Well, I’m sorry to tell you that you are wrong on both points. Italiano received no special deal and that is the truth. Let’s be straight about how the pension works. You pay your share and the city pays theirs. After 20 or 30 years you retire and receive a benefit. That is true for all employees, you and Italiano included. All city employees benefited, you and me included.
Let’s get to the real point, Dianne. You don’t like that you have to pay your share, you mentioned it over and over in your letter. Because of that you parrot Aguirre, making the assertion that something illegal happened and there was some set of people who will receive some special benefit. Further, you make the assertion that she rules with an iron fist and has some devious plan to enrich herself. Having worked with Judie for many years, I can say you are wrong on both points. What she has done is worked hard for city employees, and she has been very successful. You benefit from the work of MEA and its staff, why you believe it is not fair that you have to pay your fair share escapes me.
It is sad that you would add to the attack on city employees and our advocates, especially since you say you remember her. She hasn’t changed, Dianne. You would be well served looking elsewhere for someone to demonize.