For a solution to the problem of excessive overtime pay costs in Baltimore City, we need only review a bit of history.

The Fair Labor Standards Act passed in 1937 was a job-creation technique. It established the 40-hour work week with penalty pay, also known as overtime pay, for hours worked over 40, weekends, holidays, and so on.

This was a time of heavy unemployment. The hope was that by limiting working hours, more people would be employed. The health benefits of a more reasonable work week were incidental, but considered.

It's a no-brainer for Baltimore City, and elsewhere. Hire more people at regular pay.

Or an alternative: Have a roster of available people (the unemployed, retired, trainees; those who only want part-time or occasional work) to work as temporaries in times of need. Create jobs. Get work done. Save money.

Bernice Seiden, Baltimore