SPOKANE -- When it comes to balancing the state's budget, Spokane has an opinion.

Hundreds were in attendance at Spokane Community College Thursday night for a public hearing hosted by Washington's Office of Financial Management.

Those in the audience were given a chance to weigh-in on how to balance the Washington's 2011-2013 budget.

The first hour consisted of an informational session outlining the budget challenges facing the state. The second hour was nothing but public comment as more than 60 people voiced their concerns and suggestions.

"Every child deserves great schools, great teachers," said one man speaking passionately about the need to support our schools.

Another man who said he worked for the Department of Corrections voiced concerns about too many cuts to his profession, "The budget has already effected the department of corrections and community corrections."

A panel of representatives from Olympia listened as those in the crowd told them what to cut and what to save. It's a tough job considering the personal stories that accompany the list of programs possibly facing the axe.

One woman told the panel to spare one program that gives her a little bit of independence, "This is not a glorified program, this is someone who helps me take a bath. Excuse my frankness, but somebody who helps me after I go to the bathroom. These are basic human needs."

The meeting was one of four across the state, all part of Governor Chris Gregoire's plan to examine every state service and decide whether it's essential, being delivered cost-effectively and if it is getting the desired results.

"Without our tax money the government can't spend to create these jobs," said George McGrath, who was at Thursday's meeting. "What our government and what our governor needs to do is listen to someone who is realistic."

With Washington facing tough economic times, many in the audience wished the Governor had made the trip to Spokane in person, to talk dollars and cents.

"I was really disappointed that the Governor wasn't here," said Lee Malinda.

If you'd like to make your voice heard on the state budget, the Governor's Office has created this website where you can leave a comment.