Rally protests cuts to Philadelphia libraries and fire department

An unusual alliance has formed to fight against proposed cuts to the Philadelphia city budget. Two groups facing reductions traveled to City Hall for a protest. 
Neither Mayor Nutter nor City Council seems ready to reverse the reductions

Members of the firefighters union and those against cuts to the library system joined together to send a message to City Council and the Mayor. Bill Gault is head of the firefighters union. He called Mayor Michael Nutter “Mayor Cutter” for his propensity to cut the budget to make up shortfalls in revenues.

“I came here today to say that I’m fed up. I’m fed up with being the first to be cut. I’m fed up with no contract to protect and pay those who are the first to put their lives on the line.”

The library supporters were a vocal group. Among them was Shiela Washington, from the Haddington Branch.

“Sacrifices must be made, but let the mayor and city council show fairness in their judgment. Do not put most of the burden of this financial mess on the people who need it the most.”

The protesters went to City Council and the Mayor’s Office, but did not seem to be getting too much attention from elected officials.