City of Phoenix Could Face Budget Cuts

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

“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.

The City of Phoenix employs more than 14,000.

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.

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