Atlanta City Council returned to work Monday after its spring recess, staring down a $20 million budget deficit, potential layoffs and an uncertain funding relationship with federal officials in Washington, D.C.
It figures to be one of the most difficult budget seasons in recent years, after Mayor Andre Dickens releases his proposed budget in May and the council begins hearings with department leaders later in the month. The council must pass a balanced budget before the end of June.
Council member Howard Shook, chair of the council’s Finance and Executive Committee, said city officials will be facing what he called a “no budget” instead of a “yes budget” for the fiscal year that starts July 1…