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Berkeley's facing a massive budget shortfall, and the city manager's got a plan that might mean layoffs and fewer services. They're even thinking about asking you to pay more in sales tax to keep things like fire stations open.
At a glance
Declining — being discussed less frequently. 0 mentions in the last 30 days, 1 the 90 before that.
Approximately $30 million annual deficit addressed through position eliminations, cost shifts, and proposed November ballot revenue measures.
Long-term taxpayers and future city solvency benefit from a structurally balanced budget.
City employees facing potential layoffs and residents experiencing reduced departmental service levels.
Berkeley is facing a $30 million structural deficit, leading to the proposed elimination of 183 positions (with roughly 20 filled positions facing layoffs) as the city works to balance its biennial budget without relying on one-time funds.
The city could close a fire station, lay off police and slash hours at pools and community centers if voters don’t pass a tax increase in November. Even if the tax hike passes, Berkeley’s winter homeless shelter and Mobile Crisis Team could still be axed.
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