Fresno's mayor begins the slippery budget dance

FRESNO, California

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Mayor Ashley Swearengin announced a plan to reduce the city's $16 million budget deficit for the coming year. She wants $12 million to come from employee groups, primarily the Fresno Police Officers Association. She says talks are underway.

Mayor Swearengin said, "They are ongoing they are earnest, I think people are really operating in good faith, but that doesn't mean we have agreement."

The city has been seeking about $5 million in cuts in pay and benefits from police officers. Their union president Jacky Parks -- told Action News that informal talks with the city have occurred.

The mayor and city council will be working out the final budget plan over the next month.

In the video, Action News reporter Gene Haagenson has complete coverage on the story.

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