Phoenix Mayor Gallego says city could face budget cuts

PHOENIX – Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said the city was looking at potential areas for budget cuts as the coronavirus outbreak continues to disrupt the economy.

“The city manager has asked each department to make a 25% budget cut list, in case it is necessary,” she said in a video posted Monday.

“We are trying to tighten our belts along with everyone,” Gallego said.

4/6 PHX #COVID19 Update:
*️⃣@CDCgov recommends face mask in public. Easy directions: https://t.co/JQc6uD2dgm
*️⃣Page for all city resources: https://t.co/2gxs4dKDms
*️⃣PHX is facing new economic reality head on & has asked departments to identify possible 25% budget cuts. #StayHome pic.twitter.com/RzyxZPbzRm

— Mayor Kate Gallego (@MayorGallego) April 6, 2020

City services and facilities affected by the White House social distancing guidelines include shutdown of libraries and cancellations of events at the Phoenix Convention Center, Symphony Hall and the Orpheum Theatre.

City Manager Ed Zuercher oversees a budget of $3.4 billion a year, according to the municipal government website.

Phoenix employs more than 14,000.

Gov. Doug Ducey’s stay-at-home executive order went into effect March 31 and is expected to last at least until April 30.

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