Flint Michigan Braces For Layoffs

In a town already riddled with layoffs from the local auto industry, Flint, Michigan is now facing a $5 million budget gap for the year that will result in immediate tax increases, and potentially, layoffs.

The police and fire departments are hanging in the balance as Flint officials attempt to balance the budget without laying anyone off. If they are not able to reach concessions with the departments, more than 50 employees will get the axe.

Mayor Dayne Walling proposed a five-point budget plan that consists of city service cuts, employee compensation cuts, personnel reductions through early retirement and a tax hike. The city will also have to borrow money to compensate for old deficits.

Layoffs will occur if the city cannot reach an agreement with the six employee unions within 30 days.