I read with interest the article in the Citizen dated Aug 30, 2012, stating that an accounting firm was paid $350,000 for work, I believe, studying city financial matters.

Why not hire that firm to control spending? Give them power to veto (initially) what appears to them to be wasteful spending?

I have no problem with the current City Council, however, I suggest to Mayor Green, that she replay some of her pre-election rhetoric, and see if it lines up with her current position.

I have heard and read many of the comments made since the election, have received e mails outlining the challenges facing city officials, and I agree fully that it is not the easiest of tasks.

I suggest,however, it is time to get back to basics.

We as taxpayers do not have the luxury of doing whatever seems to be the best for the overall community, at any given time.

We live within a fixed budget, and do so out of necessity.

Let's get back to basics, and in my "humble" opinion, forget the "photo ops", "protocol" and "grandeur" and show a little of the leadership that was indicated pre-election.

The roads are getting better.

Congratulations.

Doug Stanley

Prince George