Republicans on the City Council seem to be in a mood to cut spending, which is always a good idea.

Fortunately, there is plenty to cut.

Council members already have identified about $20 million in potential cuts, and some hope to get at least $47 million trimmed from what the mayor wants to spend.

There is, of course, the Emerald Trail — a very expensive sidewalk at $434 million, (which does include some beneficial improvements of Hogans and McCoys creeks).

How about septic tank replacement?

This was started under the previous administration, but the current mayor is continuing the plan.

There are a few problems.

The entire justification for the program is suspect.

It was supposed to fulfill promises of consolidation that were not done. That is not true.

It was supposed to reduce pollution of the St. Johns River. Yet, no one ever made a case that there was any serious river pollution from septic tanks.

If there had been, the city would not have permitted the installation of thousands of additional septic tanks over the past five decades. Also, polluters would have been cited and punished.

It is important to note that this billion-dollar giveaway is not something the people are clamoring for; in fact. some probably are dreading the monthly sewer bills they will begin paying.

It is instead a gift of your dollars from generous politicians who have calculated that it will inure to their benefit at the voting booth.

Serious budget-cutters should look closely at this boondoggle.