WEST WARWICK, R.I. -- The Town Council has settled on a plan to reduce a projected million-dollar deficit in 2013 that includes securing concessions from current town workers and retirees.
Despite reservations voiced by its members about parts of the plan, the council voted unanimously on Tuesday night to approve the sweeping proposal put together by Town Manager Michael Stampfler that aims to deal with a deficit that would otherwise balloon in coming years.
The plan includes raising taxes, cutting benefits to retired workers and lifting minimum manning requirements in the Fire and Police departments.
The council's decision to back Stampfler's proposal hinged on it being considered a "working plan" that can still be changed, said council President David Gosselin.