Layoffs and tax increases feared if budget feud doesn’t end soon

The message from leaders of Rhode Island’s cities and towns is pretty clear… the budget stand–off needs to come to an end, sooner, rather than later.

Mayors and officials from 25 communities met behind closed doors at the state house on Thursday.

"The longer it goes the more hurt it is going to have,” said Cumberland Mayor William Murray.

As we approach day 28 and the first of the month, many including Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza are preparing for the worst.

He says 170 school personnel jobs likely hang in the balance.

"If this isn’t resolved by next Tuesday we’ll start sending those letters out and letting people know that they’re not going to work for us any longer. This is imminent and once it goes into effect it’s irreversible,” said Elorza.

In North Providence, Mayor Charlie Lombardi warns of a tax increase.

"If they do not pass this budget we are going to lose about a million and one which relates to about a dollar tax increase. So, the average $200,000 home in the town of North Providence their tax bill is going to increase approximately 165 dollars,” said Lombardi.

In Cumberland, fear over bond ratings.

"If they look at it that the state is causing a problem Cumberland is not going to get an upgrade. And, that bothers me because it can save a lot of money for the town,” said Murray.

The list of ramifications goes on and on.

"This is truly a mess,’ said Johnston Mayor Joe Polisena.

The impasse started last month when the Speaker got wind that the Senate President was considering introducing a last minute car tax amendment.

Since then, the leaders have met but haven’t been able to end the stalemate.

The Governor again urging them to put their differences aside.

"Pass a budget send it to my desk so we can give the people what they deserve which is a functioning government,” said Governor Gina Raimondo.

Speaker Mattiello and Senate President Ruggerio both declined our request for comment.

(C) WLNE 2017