Thank you for "Herbert's budget: Getting by on starvation rations" (Our View, Dec. 13). No one wants their taxes raised, but vital programs cannot function or continue to exist without some funding.

People who are elderly and handicapped are taking the hardest hit. The 2009 budget cuts to the state Division of Services for People with Disabilities was devastating. More than 150 positions were eliminated, and offices throughout the state were closed. My son with Down syndrome lost his very qualified case worker of 18 years. Waiting lists for services are frozen. Elderly grandmothers with bad hearts and knees are forced to care for grandsons because there is no other family or assistance from the state. What will happen when she dies?

Herbert told state agencies -- other than education -- to plan for a 3 percent funding cut. I don't know what else can be cut in DSPD. And yet, unnecessary road construction projects (like trees and beautification on 1300 East in Sandy) continue to be funded by state officials. Are roads more important than people?

When the Legislature meets, let's hope it will be compassionate and give the necessary funds to help those with the greatest needs.

Kathleen Crocker

Sandy