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Layoffs Proposed At Troubled Detroit Court

DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - A judge appointed to fix the finances of a troubled Detroit court is moving quickly to save millions by July 1, the start of a new budget year.

Layoff notices have been given to 80 employees at 36th District Court, although the job losses could be spared through other cuts, including a 10 percent reduction in pay. Health care changes and unpaid holidays are also under consideration.

Spokeswoman Marcia McBrien said the court must live within a $31 million budget. Reports, however, expect the city-financed court to exceed its budget by $4.5 million by the end of the fiscal year, June 30.

Michigan appeals court Judge Michael Talbot was recently tapped to turn the court around. He plans to meet with unions next week.

Union negotiator Robert Davis says some proposed cuts are too severe.

"We're still working for solutions," he told the Detroit Free Press. "We realize that's there's a big elephant in the room, and that big elephant is a $5-million deficit."

TM and © Copyright 2013 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2013 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

 

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