CLOVIS, N.M. (AP) - The Eastern Plains Council of Governments has cut almost a third of its staff and approved a significantly reduced budget for the 2010-2011 fiscal year.
The EPCOG board on Wednesday approved a $1.9 million budget at its annual meeting, a $3.5 million cut in the budget from the current year. Most of the money was lost because of changes in a state program to assist the unemployed.
Interim Director Richard Arguello says the new budget will mean layoffs for five of the agency's 17-member staff.
The announcement sparked a spirited response from board member and Grady Mayor Wesley Schafer, who questioned Arguello's handling of the matter. Arguello says he is still consulting with lawyers to determine how to handle the matter.
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Information from: Clovis News Journal
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