Despite some public protest Wichita city leaders say layoffs are likely a reality.

"Absolutely. It's painful for everybody and we don't like it," said City Council Member Sue Schlapp.

During Wednesday's public budget meeting it was apparent many people certainly don't like the idea of layoffs. The public pleas, however, don't quite overcome the reality of the budget situation, council members say.

"It's never easy when you affect someone's life to that degree but we were asked and we gave direction to the city manager to look at opportunities to bring us more efficient delivery of services," said Council Member Jeff Longwell.

One way for the city to streamline services is to privatize its grass mowing. It says the move will save $1 million helping to close the $8 million budget gap. It also means at least 50 workers will lose their jobs.

"We're not doing anything that's any different from any city in the United States. All the cities are doing this and they're all making some tough decisions," said Mayor Carl Brewer.

While the council has been called on to find other ways to make cuts, instead of relying on layoffs, it says there's nowhere else to turn. Especially because it's already trying to figure out how to find an additional $1 million without raising alarm system fees to prevent fire department cuts. The parks simply aren't as high of a priority as the city's core services.

"At this point they're not quite equivalent as the police and the fire safety concerns we have," said Council Member Sue Schlapp.

"Not everyone is going to be happy and you heard that last night. Regardless of what happens, someone is going to be upset," said Longwell.

The public will have four more chances to address the council before it votes on the final budget in August.