Cary Town Council Considers 10 Percent Budget Cut

Town councilmen Nels Roseland and Michael Joyce are proposing a 10 percent across-the-board budget cut. Under their plan, only the police department would be exempt. On the other hand, as part of the proposed 10-percent cut, the fire department could see significant reductions.

In an e-mail to WRAL news, Joyce said that the proposed cuts are simply suggestions and will be discussed at future budget meetings. He added that in the end, no one may lose their job.

The cost-cut idea is based in part on a study that shows, compared to several North Carolina cities including Raleigh and Durham, Cary has a below average number of fire calls at 46 per 1,000 people. At $2,700, the cost per fire response is almost double what other cities pay.

However, officials said a cut will only come if councilmembers are convinced it is safe.

"I don't think anyone on the council wants to compromise public safety," said Cary Mayor Ernie McAlister.

The next Cary budget meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 19.