Budget Woes Cut Quality of Life In Toronto

"[S]ervice reductions will become the norm in Toronto as a result of city manager Shirley Hoy's 'cost containment' strategy, which trims $34 million from the city's operating budget this year and for 2008 will slash $83 million, far short of the money needed to deal with the city's projected $575 million shortfall next year."

"A subdued looking Mayor David Miller told a news conference at City Hall that the changes are unavoidable given the city's fiscal crisis."

"'All of these things are a diminution of the quality of life in Toronto, and from my perspective that's why it was so important to try and avoid this day,' the mayor said."