Coatesville's failing finances are to blame for City Manager Harry Walker wanting to layoff as many as 10 employees to cover year-end budget shortfalls.

Friday those effected were notified of their pending layoffs. The ChesterCountyReporter.com has learned that two employees in the Codes Department, one in Finance, two in the Recreation Department, one in Administration and possibly three part-time police dispatchers and two crossing guards are all slated for layoffs.

"It's horrendous here," said one employee requesting anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation. "It's like working in a funeral home. Morale is at an all-time low."

City council has called for an emergency executive meeting tonight.

This year's budget was balanced with the anticipation of selling off city-owned property and inflated revenue figures from new construction.