Elected leaders in 11 southern Illinois cities are rallying against proposed state budget cuts they say would "devastate" local governments.
Gov. Bruce Rauner has proposed a 50% cut to state income tax revenue provided to cities, counties, village and townships as Illinois faces a multi-billion dollar budget hole.
The mayors of Alton, Collinsville and nine other cities near St. Louis spoke out at a Wednesday news conference in Belleville.
Belleville Mayor Mark Eckert said his city stands to lose $2.2 million in July and would have to close a fire station, lay off police officers and possibly raise taxes.
The local mayors said they hope to meet with Rauner during an expected gubernatorial visit to the area next month.
