By Edward Mason
The Boston Herald
LAWRENCE, Mass. — The city of Lawrence is sending out layoff notices today to nearly 200 teachers, cops and firefighters as part of a budget plan the state overseer says lets the cash-strapped city avoid a state takeover.
“The budget is balanced, and with this budget, there’s no need for a finance control board,” Robert Nunes, the financial overseer of Lawrence, told the Herald.
Mayor William Lantigua submitted his proposed $224 million budget for fiscal 2011, crafted with Nunes, last night to the City Council. Lantigua could not be reached for comment.
Union leaders will have a chance to save some of their members’ jobs by giving back $4 million in salary and benefits.
“We’ll be involved in marathon collective bargaining sessions with 11 unions,” Nunes said.
In all, 190 city workers are getting pink slips. Many are desk jockeys but others are on the front lines, including 35 police officers and 29 firefighters. Of 75 school layoffs, 32 are teachers, five are janitors and three are nurses, Nunes said. Another 15 Department of Public Works and seven librarians are being laid off.
“It’s balanced to the penny, and there are no gimmicks,” Nunes said.
Lawrence was allowed by Beacon Hill to borrow $35 million to close budget holes from previous years. In exchange, the state appointed Nunes to watch over the city. The City Council has until July 1 to approve the budget. Nunes said he is “confident” it will.
“This is the first step toward getting the city of Lawrence in a strong financial situation,” he said.
Copyright 2010 Boston Herald Inc.