Layoffs for New London police, firefighters

NEW LONDON, Conn. (WTNH) -- Dozens of emergency responders in New London won't have a job after the first of June.

Mayor Daryl Finzio says the city will be laying off 10 police officers and 25 firefighters as he tries to close the city's budget gap. He calls the cuts "Draconian and difficult... but unavoidable."

"Yes, it would take ten for us to have a balanced budget at this point," said New London Police Chief Margaret Ackley.

But at what cost?

"It would absolutely jeopardize public safety," said city councilor and firefighter, Michael Passero. "No doubt."

He says he had no idea the budget councilors approved would lead to the layoffs of 10 police officers and 25 firefighters, while leaving open positions vacant.

The cuts to the police and fire departments are expected to save the city about $1.2 million but that may be more in benefits than salaries because the fewer people they have, the more overtime will be paid.

News 8 asked Fire Chief Ron Samul if this means public safety is at risk.

"What do you say to that? As far as staffing levels, our staffing levels remain the same," he said. "There's just less people in the fire department to cover those jobs."

News 8 dug deeper to know if that in itself is a risk.

"I've said numerous times that, particularly when it comes to fire, I definitely do not want to see layoffs at the bottom," Finizio said.

The city is currently in negotiations with the police and fire unions to see if there are areas which can be cut instead of people.

"Someone saying this is a tactic for negotiations putting out these layoffs. This is not a tactic, this is reality," said Chief Administrative Officer Jane Glover.

A harsh reality which may be hashed out at the negotiating table.