RE “PATRICK should cut local aid, ease up on human services’’ (Editorial, Nov. 2): Although I appreciate the Globe’s support of human services, Governor Patrick took a balanced approach in dealing with human services, preserving a range of programs that were at risk. We had expected deeper reductions given the state’s financial picture.
I’m sure local aid proponents won’t be happy with the more than $20 million in combined cuts of the special education circuit breaker or regional pupil transportation, both included with the governor’s 9C reductions.
Bipartisan support of a revenue strategy that includes federal and state elements is the best way to offset cuts for human services and local aid. As state Senator Steven Panagiotakos stated last year, a problem this big can’t be solved by taxes or cuts alone.
House members in Congress have proposed an increase in federal Medicaid funding to states during 2011. Such a strategy combined with additional state revenue could offset the disruption of our human services safety net, our schools, and public safety. We need to build upon the governor’s balanced approach.
Leo V. Sarkissian
Executive director
The Arc of Massachusetts
Waltham 
