Indio City Council Considers Pay Raise Despite Deficit

The Indio City Council will consider on Wednesday whether to increase union workers’ salaries by 5%, despite the fact the city is facing a $6 million budget deficit.

If the pay increases are approved, the city will have to find $800,000 to supplement the raises.

The unions demanded a pay hike due to higher cost-of-living expenses. Their proposed increases will take effect for the next two years.

The council also is expected to formally adopt the 2011-2012 fiscal year budget.

City Manager Dan Martinez asked department heads to reduce their operating budgets by 12% in order to help balance the budget.

Police Chief Brad Ramos said he may have to remove as many as six officers from street Patrol.

Fire Chief Mike Marlow indicated he may have to eliminate one fire truck from the North Indio Station No. 4.

The council meeting is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. at the Indio City Council Chambers.