A packed town hall in Auburn turned into a blunt conversation about layoffs, contracts, and a growing deficit, according to The Citizen. City Councilor Craig Diego warned the upcoming budget could become “the craziest” he faces as the city deals with a deficit that has climbed to $6.8 million.
Diego pointed to stagnant state aid, rising costs, and union contract language that could block firefighter job cuts. He also backed giving Auburn City Ambulance another year before considering major changes.
Residents praised Diego for holding the rare public forum, while he pushed for more shared services between Auburn and Cayuga County to cut costs.
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