Big layoffs possible in Reno

RENO " Reno city officials say up to 500 workers could lose their jobs under worse-case budget projections.

Finance director Andrew Green says hundreds of workers could be laid off if the city has to cut another $17 million from its budget.

The City Council has already directed staff to prepare plans to cut $3.3 million for consideration in January.

Officials say that reduction could require up to 100 job losses, not including 16 possible layoffs in the building department.

City Manager Charles McNeely is asking labor unions to reduce work hours or forego a 2.1 percent raise in January to try to avoid layoffs.

Discussions between the city and worker groups are ongoing.