Oakland facing $129M budget deficit, leaders consider budget cuts
Crowd calls on Oakland City Council to avoid layoffs in tackling $129-million budget deficit
The Oakland City Council heard options from the city administrator Monday, on how to close a $129-million budget shortfall by the end of the fiscal year. Union members from across the citys departments filled the chamber with signs and passionate public comment saying that laying off workers should be avoided.
OAKLAND, Calif. - Oakland's city council is set to discuss budget cuts Monday as the city faces a $129-million budget deficit.
One idea to get it under control is to cut some funding to police and fire.
The city council plans to reduce spending on police overtime, and cut two police academies, while also considering suspending up to six fire engines.
But that's not sitting well with the unions that represent them.
They plan to attend the council meeting to convince the members that those proposals are a bad idea.
"We think the city can do a lot through fiscal controls to make sure we're cutting waste and also collecting revenue," said Julian Ware, IFPTE Local 21 vice president.
Budget cuts may come in two phases.
Oakland's city administrator said a second phase of cuts could include up to 91 jobs citywide.
There will be no votes on any budget items until the Dec. 17 regular board meeting.