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St. Helens warns of furloughs, layoffs and service cuts as budget shortfall grows
Summary
City staff said the general fund faces a shortfall even if a proposed ballot measure passes; staff warned the city is preparing two budgets (with and without the fee), may implement furloughs or layoffs, and will host public education events to explain trade-offs affecting library hours, permitting and recreation services.
City officials told the St. Helens City Council at its March 18 work session that the municipality is facing an acute general‑fund shortfall and is preparing contingency plans that could include furloughs, layoffs and service reductions.
City administrator John (speaker 13) told council that, even if a referred ballot measure (a proposed general‑fund revenue measure) is approved, the city will likely still need to reduce services unless other revenues materialize. "We're preparing a budget with the fee and what budget without the fee," John said, noting staff have…
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