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Fire chief says budget cuts will put St. Louisans at greater risk

By AP/St. Louis Public Radio

St. Louis – The St. Louis fire chief warns a proposal to cut $4.5 million from the department's budget will endanger the safety of residents.

Chief Dennis Jenkerson told an aldermanic committee Wednesday that the cuts will mean firefighter layoffs and the possible closure of fire houses. He said that'll lead to longer response times.

But Public Safety Director Charles Bryson saidany layoffs and closings would happen only after a careful review of how to minimize the impact.

The city of St. Louis facing a $45 million deficit.

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