Clifton City Council members confronted a staggering $8 million budget shortfall during the recent budget meeting on April 8, 2025. The discussion revealed deep concerns about the city's financial health, with officials grappling to find solutions without resorting to layoffs.

One council member emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "We are $8,000,000 short," and expressed frustration over the lack of dialogue regarding the city's financial challenges. The council explored the possibility of increasing the fund balance from 50% to 60%, which could potentially yield an additional $1.4 million to help mitigate the deficit. However, the complexities of the budget left many questions unanswered.

The conversation also touched on revenue sources, with court fees showing a slight increase, but uncertainty remained about other potential funding, such as grants. A recycling tonnage grant of $200,000 was mentioned as a consistent annual revenue source, but it was clear that more comprehensive strategies were needed to address the budget gap.

As the council deliberated, the need for a hiring freeze was proposed to manage costs effectively. The discussion highlighted the critical nature of the city's financial situation, with officials acknowledging the necessity of making tough decisions in the coming months. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining how Clifton navigates this significant budgetary challenge.