Friday’s Reno City Council Meeting revealed new budget numbers, which will make possible layoffs a definite. The city’s budget gap, which was once projected at $3.6 million, now sits at just under $6 million. In order to fill the increased gap, many additional cuts will occur, including a reduction in the city’s workforce.

71.75 full-time positions will be cut across the majority of city departments. While two of the positions will be vacated by retirement, and 22 of the positions are already vacant, the remainder will happen through laying off existing employees.

The city will begin processing the layoffs on Monday so that those affected will be given at least 10 days notice, as well as an opportunity to appeal. While there are a few issues to be worked out, such as ones related to seniority, the process is set to be completed by February 16.

Friday’s meeting was not concerned with the 2010/2011 fiscal year and the council will reconvene on January 27 to work on the 2010/2011 fiscal year. As many as 160 to 180 city employees may be laid off before the city is able to even out the budget.