Cincinnati City Council wants to avoid layoffs and protect public safety in the next fiscal year budget, despite an expected $29.5 million deficit in the general fund.
All general fund departments were asked to estimate a 5.1% cut; several department directors said cuts that deep would require leaving vacant positions open, but also laying off current employees — that includes the police department.
A Council committee voted 6-3 Monday on a motion outlining budget priorities. City Manager Sheryl Long will use this guidance to prepare the first draft of the budget…