Smart Talk: York deals with budget woes and schools while others watch; Wanted: More anglers

What to look for on Smart Talk Wednesday, December 10, 2014:

The City of York is confronting two major challenges and the rest of the state is watching because other municipalities and schools could face similar problems.

York Mayor Kim Bracey has proposed a 2015 budget that would include layoffs of 46 police officers and eight firefighters. The city faces a $7 million budget shortfall but raising taxes is not an option since York is up against a tax cap set by the state. However, a number of fees will be increased under the proposal.

Meanwhile, the city’s troubled school district could be the first in the state to convert to all charter schools.

WITF’s Keystone Crossroads reporter Emily Previti has been covering the York situation and will appear on Wednesday’s Smart Talk to discuss what she’s found.

Also, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission has reduced the cost of fishing licenses in the state in an effort to promote fishing and bring lapsed anglers back to the sport.

Between now and the end of December, it will cost three dollars less for a three year license and five dollars less for a five year license.

John Arway, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission joins us on Wednesday’s Smart Talk to explain.