Syracuse is one of many cities feeling the financial burden of the coronavirus pandemic. Now leaders are making painful decisions to try and stay out of the red.

“You begin to see how difficult and how challenging this fiscal situation is for the City of Syracuse,” said Mayor Ben Walsh.

Walsh expects to see a significant hit on sales tax revenue, which brings in the most money, $13.4 million loss in 2020 and $10.7 million in 2021. On top of that, at least a 20% reduction in state aid.

“It’s a moving target, and we’re going to continue to track it,” said Walsh. “It gives you a sense of how hard we have been hit just on one revenue source. It’s devastating to city finances.”

Walsh says they must take action to save funds. He placed 104 non-essential workers on temporary, unpaid leave.

“The largest two groups of employees within that group is crossing guards and our parks and recreation staff,” said Walsh. “That leave is in place until the end of July.”

Walsh says it's projected to save $20,000-$30,000 per week. He adds there may be even more cuts in the future.

They’re also freezing non-essential spending and accessing the fund balance for short term relief.

“While the fund balance is in place for a reason, that’s why we call it a rainy-day fund,” said Walsh. “It is indeed raining, it is not a sustainable solution.”

In order to really dig the city out of debt, Walsh says they need federal aid.

“We have to plan for the worst, but we’re going to continue to hope for the best,” said Walsh. “I’m heartened and encouraged by our federal delegation, and I know they’re going to work really hard on behalf of all of us to secure those resources.”

Meanwhile, a Financial Contingency Committee is creating spending plans. Walsh says bankruptcy and a fiscal control board are not options.