Pittsburgh eyes layoffs, service cuts

PITTSBURGH, Aug. 1 (UPI) -- Cash-strapped Pittsburgh, with no state help on the way, is reported planning to lay off more than 500 workers and cut services to save money.

Earmarked for closing are senior and recreation centers, pools and other services. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette said the cutbacks, which still won't prevent the city from going broke by the end of the year, could be announced as early as next week.

Neither Mayor Tom Murphy nor his spokesman would confirm the plans. The city is facing a $60 million budget shortfall this year, which it wants to make up with tax increases and pension aid, both of which require state approval. But the Legislature is in recess.

The cuts, which are being discussed with city department directors and bureau chiefs, also could include suspending Public Works services, such as rodent control, and selling the city's asphalt plant, said a source who spoke on the condition of anonymity.