By GEOFF MULVIHILL and SUSAN HAIGH
Associated Press Writers
TRENTON, N.J. – William Liberty began as a trash collector in Lindenwold 37 years ago and worked his way up to public works supervisor. Until recently, he figured he would hold on to the job until he turned 65.
But last week, at 62, he was preparing his retirement papers, joining a rush among New Jersey public employees.
Liberty’s reason for getting out now: He is feeling the sting of a campaign by Republican Gov. Chris Christie and a growing number of other public officials across the U.S. to balance their budgets by making government employment – and retirement – less lucrative.