Reno gives layoff notices to 100 more city workers

One hundred more Reno city employees have received layoff notices, prompting the immediate closure of a downtown police substation to the public.

The Reno Gazette-Journal reported the workers were advised by the personnel office of their options Friday, including unemployment benefits and self-paid, extended health coverage.

City spokeswoman Michele Anderson said the employees were put on administrative leave until the layoffs take effect March 1 so they have more time to find work while under the city's health insurance coverage.

Last year, the city laid off 126 full-time positions and left another 56 positions empty. In all, 381 positions have been eliminated in the last two years, reducing city staff to about 1,240.

A severe budget shortfall has prompted the layoffs.