Again, we thank you for your responses on Jim Amann's chances for governor. But the big topic locally has centered around the Board of Education's proposed budget, which officials are seeking a 6.4 percent increase.

On Friday Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr., who typically doesn't speak about the school board budget, said it's too high, and may lead to a tax increase. He blamed the Democratic controlled school board for failing to make any reductions to Supt' of Schools Harvey B. Polansky's budget.

Aldermanic Chairman Ben Blake, D-5, has countered that the aldermen will certainly reduce the school budget, and the only question is by how much. Democratic School Board Chairman David Hourigan, D-4, has said it's the job of the school board to advocate for the needs of the district's 7,600 students.

The finance board is holding a public hearing on the city and school budget 7 p.m. Wednesday night at City Hall. Should be interesting to see how many people attend. Typically, parents come out in droves to speak in support of the school budget.

Remember still four months left in the budget season. It should be as wild a ride as last year, especially with the Democrats in control of the boards and commissions, and Richetelli, a Republican on the other side.