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Protesters Take To The Streets During Mayor Nutter's Budget Address

By Jenn Bernstein

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Hundreds of union city workers rallied outside of city hall as Mayor Nutter finished his budget address (see related story).

Union members carried signs that read "Mayor Bozo" and chanted as they marched. Police blocked off traffic, which began to back up as workers walked around City Hall.

PHOTOS: Protestors March Around City Hall After Shouting Down Nutter

"We didn't want this Mayor to address this budget, and we succeeded with that," said Local 403 President Larry Cox.

"We don't want furlough days, we don't want a 401k, we want a fair pension!" said District Council 33 member Neil Schreiber.

Union members say five years without a contract is five years too long.

District Council 33 President Pete Matthews urged Mayor Nutter to negotiate, telling the rally "Mayor Nutter, you've got a d*** fight on your hands!"

He went on to say most of the issues can be negotiated, like the pension plan and overtime. The only thing they don't want on the table is furlough days.

"In five years he has never once come to one negotiating session," said Matthews.

The Mayor's spokesman Mark McDonald responded saying, "The union says 'No' to any of the critical reforms that city taxpayers need to help create a sustainable city budget in the future. Consequently, we are asking the Court to give us the authority to impose our final offer."

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