Mayor Bing continues to work on Detroit finances despite impending emergency financial manager

Detroit mayor says he doesn't want emergency financial manager, but it's not up to him

DETROIT – Detroit Mayor Dave Bing is a realist.

He knows the state of Michigan's patience has run out and is preparing to put someone else in charge of Detroit's finances. Now, Bing is planning the kind of cutting that has only been talked about.

Bing announced between 400 and 500 layoffs that will exclude revenue-generating positions. He started the paperwork and it will take about three months to go into effect.

Read more: Bing plans to bring 6 issues to City Council next week

Moreover, but less effective in the money-saving arena, Bing will take a package of six proposal to City Council on Tuesday to show unity.

In part the mayor will ask for approval of the controversial Miller Canfield contract. He says he now has five votes.

Bing will also ask for medical dependent and workers compensation fraud audits to get the thumbs up along with serious adjustments to the city's cost structure. He's hoping to avoid a state-appointed emergency financial manager.

Read more: Detroit likely gets emergency financial manager early 2013

"I don't agree with it but that's not my decision," Bing said. "I don't think it's the appropriate decision. I think if an EFM comes in here, what is he or she going to do different than what we've already done?"

The state of Michigan does not agree with Bing. Local 4 has been told there is little the mayor can do to prevent an emergency financial manager's arrival in Detroit. In fact, on Monday, the financial advisory board will tell the state treasurer one is needed. That will happen before the mayor's very hopeful Tuesday session with City Council.


About the Author:

Rod Meloni is an Emmy Award-winning Business Editor on Local 4 News and a Certified Financial Plannerâ„¢ Professional.