The Modesto Bee editorial on the subject ("Share views of city's free pruning pickup," Aug. 28) was particularly well done and confirmed that the program's continuation is vital to our community.
While city funds are always in short supply, the willingness of the council to provide vital services is generally met.
It is for this reason that I urge you to continue the periodic garden refuse program.
Inasmuch as city staff is proposing its curtailment, I would like to suggest that it be done on a trial basis. Who better to evaluate the need for the program than the same people who who have proposed eliminating it?
Following a season of no pickups, if these staff people feel its curtailment is good, it could be expanded to all city employees. I would leave to your judgment if the council members should be included. I suggest it be voluntary for the council members.
RICHARD BARHITE
Modesto
Elimination of the pruning pickup is on tonight's council agenda. The meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. in the basement of Tenth Street Place, 1010 10th St., and will be televised live on Comcast Channel 7. Residents can send comments to council members via the city Web site, www.modestogov.com/council, or by calling 342-2236.
