January 29, 2009

StreetTalk by Carol Rosen

A couple of weeks ago, Gov. Schwarzenegger told the state’s assembly members and senators that if they didn’t come up with a budget, he wasn’t going to pay them. How do you feel about this?
(Asked at the Almaden Branch Library and Community Center)


“I think everyone deserves to get paid if they are doing their job. Gov. Schwarzenegger needs to figure out he’s the one that created the problem especially with his lack of experience.“

Nikki Randolph
Almaden
High school teacher


“I feel strenuous measures are needed. I agree.”

Ann Chambers
Almaden
Unemployed


“I think it’s a bit extreme. Depriving them of pay isn’t justified.”

Pat Condran, 56
Blossom Valley
Systems administrator


“Sounds great. I spent time in December with no pay because of economic problems at my company, so why shouldn’t they get their pay cut if they’re not doing their job. It’s a great idea.”

Mark Flynn, 51
Blossom Valley
Director of engineering


“It seems a bit unfair, but he’s trying to get them to work.”

Jeremy Sherr, 26
Almaden
Library


“It’s a good idea. They are obviously not doing their jobs. It’s taking too long. They need to compromise. It’s definitely a problem. Meanwhile the people are going to suffer.”

Chuck Loney
Almaden
Retired


“I think that’s a great idea. Gov. Schwarzenegger earns a $1 a year. If these lawmakers can’t pass something that works, they should be relegated to a $1 a year or less. That’s what is going to happen to the state in a couple of weeks.”

Brett Houston, 43
Almaden
Network Consulting owner


“It’s an absolutely wonderful idea. If they can’t do their job, they shouldn’t get paid. If I don’t do my job I wouldn’t get paid.”

Sharon Rasmussen, 50ish
Almaden
Paralegal


“It’s a good thing.”

Shohreh Mahdavi, 61
Almaden
Unemployed


“I think that it’s smart. It will encourage them to get moving a little quicker. I agree 100 percent.”

Robert, 35
Almaden
Recruiter/bartender