Tacoma Fire passes on cost-of-living raises to avoid layoffs

The Tacoma firefighters union gave back $1.6 million in cost-of-living increases to make sure there was enough money in the city budget to keep 44 people from losing their jobs.

Those firefighters were going to be laid off as the city struggles to balance its budget. The police union made similar moves last week to save more than 50 officers from the budget ax.

But public safety layoffs could still be needed. The city’s budget hole is still $13 million.

The News Tribune reports the city is looking at new taxes and fees as a way to fill the hole.

The city council is already planning another set a layoffs in March.