At least 1,000 city workers face layoffs

LOS ANGELES City officials say the city could go bankrupt unless it takes drastic measures to cover its projected $199 million deficit over the next five months of this fiscal year.

Matt Szabo, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa's deputy chief of staff says the city hopes to find private operators to take over the zoo, convention center and golf courses to lessen the impact of the layoffs.

Victor Gordo, attorney for the Coalition of Los Angeles City Union says under its labor contract, the city has to grant early retirement to at least 2,400 city employees. He says the city is also required to enforce other cost cutting measures before it resorts to layoffs.

City News Service Contributed to this Report.