COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Columbus police and firefighters are throwing their support behind a proposed .5-percent city income tax increase.
Mayor Michael Coleman said he's not using a scare tactic when he tells voters that firefighters and police officers probably will be laid off if the income tax in not increased in August.
At a joint gathering Thursday, police and firefighter union leaders announced their memberships voted Wednesday night to endorse the tax hike proposal.
Local Fraternal Order of Police President Jim Gilbert said that with retirements approaching and no new police recruit class, law enforcement officers cannot withstand further cuts and maintain current safety levels for residents without jeopardizing safety.
"We stand to lose so much if one police officer is cut from our area," said Joyce Hughes, president of the Weinland Park Civic Association.
While city and community leaders say the .5 percent income tax hike will bring needed funding to the city during dire financial times, some residents want more assurances that the unions and Coleman will make further financial sacrifices themselves before supporting the tax increase.
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