Phoenix seeks to cut 500 police & fire positions, close 6 libraries, 5 senior centers...

[Bluebear]

For the first time in recent history, Phoenix leaders have proposed cutting hundreds of police officers and firefighters to help balance the city's budget.

The Police Department would eliminate 355 positions, from patrol officers to assistant chiefs. Fire would cut 144 positions across the board.

The proposed public-safety reductions are among dozens of cuts City Manager David Cavazos unveiled Thursday as part of his plan to help solve the city's $242 million deficit for this year and fiscal 2011. Cuts across all city departments would total about $140 million .

Cavazos' proposed budget also calls for closing six library branches, five senior centers, Arizona Horse Lovers Park, and the Shemer Art Center. Other Phoenix points of pride also would be closed or face reduced funding, as would recreation and youth-sports programs and facilities.

http://www.azcentral.com/community/phoenix/articles/2010/01/28/20100128phoenix-cutting-500-police-fire-positions-to-balance-budget28-ON.html

[leftstreet]

1. But the economy's turning around!

er...

K&R

[Bluebear]

2. As we spend billions on defense, only to close libraries.

:crazy:

[Iggo]

3. Or they could just tax the rich.

:shrug:

[Tansy_Gold]

4. not in Arizona. . . . . . . .

I can't begin to explain to you the mindset of the pukes in this state. And unfortunately, they make up the majority of the voters, most of the time. Especially in Maricopa County, home of the beloved Sheriff Joe. . . . .

[blondeatlast]

5. Crap, crap. crap. this ex-library employee says if they would lay off the top heavy management,

they could keep Shemer Arts Center open part time. I'm gonna be sick. :mad: