The city of Denver is grappling with significant layoffs, with Mayor Mike Johnston confirming the elimination of 171 city and county positions alongside the removal of 665 vacant roles as part of efforts to address a $200 million budget deficit. The layoffs have stirred controversy, particularly as they spare police and fire departments while heavily impacting smaller offices such as children’s affairs and climate action. Council members have expressed outrage, with some describing the cuts as a retaliatory purge, especially in light of a city employee who was laid off following a discrimination lawsuit. Additionally, the City Council has postponed a $26,000 mountain retreat, reflecting the public outcry and scrutiny surrounding the timing of these layoffs. Mayor Johnston maintains that these reductions will help achieve a balanced budget by 2026 and assures that no further layoffs are expected.