It appears as though the City of Somerville will be spared public employee layoffs if Mayor Curtatone’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2013 is accepted and implemented according to plan. Many who depend on these jobs are breathing a collective sigh of relief as this news is disseminated throughout the city grapevine.

The stated $171.7 million represents a slight increase over last year’s budget and yet insures not only public sector job security but precludes any budget gap that has been experienced in years past. This is also welcome news to the community as the practice of “robbing Peter to pay Paul” has led to much hand wringing and worry among those who have to make the city government work.

Further, education will receive special attention in the coming year. The mayor cited the importance of being prepared to sustain the growing enrollment in the lower grades. Making certain that our schools receive the support they require is of great importance to all of us. Such matters represent a clear yardstick to measure the quality of life in any community. It looks as though we may have a plan before us that will deal with this and other issues in a responsible and, hopefully, successful way.

Overall, the future looks a little brighter for the city’s financial status and we congratulate those who have worked hard to forge this plan that has been presented for consideration.

In a world where it is impossible to completely please everyone, this budget seems to come as close as possible to covering the community’s wants and needs.

A job well done.