The city of Santa Monica will merge several departments and lay off staff as it moves to reduce its budget amid a sharp decline in revenues.

The city relies on tax revenue from sectors such as retail and tourism that have been devastated by stay-at-home orders. By June 30, the end of the fiscal year, the city will have a $72 million General Fund shortfall. Next fiscal year, projections show a nearly 40% drop in city revenues and a $154 million General Fund gap. Officials will release a proposed plan for organizational restructuring and budget cuts Friday that City Council will vote on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, Interim City Manager Lane Dilg shared some details of the plan in a videoconference with city staff.

Read More: https://www.smdp.com/city-of-santa-monica-to-merge-departments-and-lay-off-staff/190272