© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Bernero uses furlough days to fill Lansing budget hole

downtown buildings
WKAR Photo
Lansing City Hall.

By Rob South, WKAR News

LANSING, MI – Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero issued an executive order today that will use employee furlough days to help fill a $3-million mid-year budget gap.

Bernero says all city employees will be subject to nine unpaid furlough days between now and the end of the fiscal year in June.

He says his plan keeps the city from having to lay off workers and it could be something the city could use to address its ongoing financial problems.

The furloughs will also affect police and firefighters, but Bernero says emergency services won't be compromised.

The city's four major labor unions still need to approve the plan.

Bernero's plan also includes 10% across the board cuts in operating and capital expenses.

Together we’ve already reduced WKAR’s $1.6 million budget gap created by the loss of federal funding. With your sustaining support we can close the remaining $500,000 gap and keep trusted public media strong for mid-Michigan. The best way to support WKAR is to become a sustainer. Already a sustainer? Please consider upgrading your current monthly gift.