L.A., unions continue talks

City officials and union leaders returned to the negotiating table Thursday in the struggle to cover a $405 million shortfall, as Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa reasserted his authority to order layoffs and furloughs.Daily News.

City Administrative Officer Miguel Santana led discussions with the Coalition of City Unions about a proposed early-retirement incentive package and will report to the City Council today on their progress.

If no agreement is reached, Santana said, the council will proceed with plans to furlough workers - 26 days a year for all those scheduled to get cost-of-living increases this year and 18 days for those not receiving an increase.