On Tuesday evening (April 26) there will be a public hearing for the fiscal year 2011-2012 budget. It begins at 6pm in the Bulkeley High School auditorium. If you want to speak, you need to get there early to sign up. These hearings typically last for hours, and at them, someone inevitably gripes about how his/her kids are with a babysitter who was only supposed to be there until eight. Don’t be that person. Budget for the sitter to stay longer or bring the kids with you.

The video below is Councilor Cotto talking about some of the budget basics — where the money comes from and where it goes.

You can also read the City of Hartford recommended budget here. If you’re going to complain about government spending (or cuts) at least take some time to educate yourself first.