With the process of closing a $15.4-million budget gap winding its way through Glendale City Hall, even skateboarders may feel the pinch of deep spending cuts.
In addition to losing an expected 90 employees to retirement and the possibility of laying off a dozen more, the city may also close the Verdugo Skate Park on weekdays to save money, according to a proposal floated at City Hall this week.
“There are no easy reductions left at this time,” City Manager Scott Ochoa told the City Council Tuesday.
The council had to close an $18-million budget shortfall last fiscal year, leaving little fat to trim this time around.
Program reductions — such as shutting the skate park during the week, minimizing city-sponsored events and curbing police overtime — could save the city about $4.2 million.
The suggestions are what are left on the table after the City Council struck down other options, such as increasing business and parking taxes.