Detroit Mayor Dave Bing has asked unions and companies to consider the position the city is in, and reach some compromises. The budget deficit in Detroit has reached $350 million, and Bing fears the city could run out of money in less than 3 months if emergency measures aren't taken. The mayor had imposed a 30-day contract deadline which has now expired, and Bing issued a statement asking for concessions. The city is proposing that employees take a 20% pay cut through a 4-day work week or a 10% cut via furlough days. Bing will meet with the city's union leaders Monday afternoon to discuss the proposals, as well as existing contracts, and possible other concessions.
See "Bing to meet with city unions to talk concessions", Suzette Hackney, Detroit Free Press, August 9, 2009