Updated 01:05, October the 17th, 2008
Mayor announces a hiring freeze for Hub
Menino, police commissioner discuss police cuts and crime
After more than $1 billion in state budget cuts were passed down Wednesday, Boston Mayor Thomas Menino Thursday announced a hiring freeze for all city departments and expressed concern over potential cuts to community policing so crucial to reductions in crime.
Menino said the city will also review all non-personnel expenditures — such as vehicles, equipment and travel — and conduct an analysis of capital spending projects. He will meet with department heads today to forward the review process.
“This is just the beginning as I look at it,” said Menino, who stressed that the city’s core assets remain secure and Boston has survived similar slumps before.
There are serious concerns, however.
The city is projecting a decrease of $16 million in interest revenue in fiscal year 2009, about the same amount as the Park Department’s budget. And Question One, an initiative that would eliminate the state income tax, could cause the city to lose roughly $300 million in state funding if passed Nov. 4, according to Menino.
Additionally, the city expects an impact on community policing programs that are given partial credit for an 11.7 percent drop in crime this year. Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis remains confident in the department’s ability to weather the storm.
“We believe right now with the cuts we face that we can maintain the same level of service,” Davis said.
