RALEIGH, N.C. — The state is in the red, and the trickle-down effect is being felt in cities all over North Carolina. The city of Raleigh went on the offensive Tuesday and let residents know that city services may be affected.

Raleigh Mayor Charles Meeker and other city officials were at a press conference Tuesday discussing why the state's decision to withhold $8 million may hurt the city. The money being withheld was in response to Gov. Mike Easley invoking emergency budget powers last week.

"To put it in other terms that folks may relate to, it is the equivalent of 176 police officers or the equivalent of 200 firefighters," City Manager Russell Allen said.

According to city officials, layoffs involving city personnel will not be considered and vacant positions will stay unfilled. Some garbage pickup around holidays may also be curtailed.

Meeker also made it clear at the press conference that the city does not intend to raise property taxes.

Meeker and other mayors from across the state will meet with Easley on Wednesday to discuss the issue.