Revenue shortfall may lead to layoffs

Chicago Mayor Richard Daley may force city workers to take as many as three unpaid furlough days this year as a way to plug a budget deficit.

While city officials won't say how big of a shortfall they are anticipating, legislation authorizing the furlough days refers to "a continuing decrease in revenues" that will create a deficit unless cost-cutting measures are taken.

The ordinance would require all non-union city workers who are paid $75,000 or more a year to take three days off without pay before the end of the year. Non-union workers who make less than $75,000 would be forced to take two furlough days.

Budget Department spokeswoman Wendy Abrams says the city is facing a potentially large deficit because of the weak housing market and the high price of fuel for city vehicles.