MichiganRadio

Incoming Detroit City Council President Supports $250 Million Bond Issue LANSING, MI (MPRN) -

The new Detroit city council president says he supports Mayor Dave Bing's plan to sell bonds to retire a budget deficit.

Charles Pugh was the top vote-getter in the Detroit city council race, which puts him in the top spot.

He says Detroit is facing tough choices, including cutting the size of city government. And he says it makes sense to go further into debt to deal with the budget crisis.

"If we're already in debt, then let's be in debt without a deficit," says Pugh, "Let's show that we do at least have a plan because, generating revenue, there's no magic tax we can raise or fees we can charge in order to get rid of a 400 million dollar deficit."

Pugh was appearing on the Michigan Public Television show 'Off the Record.'

He is one of five newcomers on the city council. Pugh says the new council members understand they need to change how the city does business. They will take office in January. © Copyright 2012, MPRN