By SCOTT HARRISON

s.harrison@krdo.com

COLORADO SPRINGS - Firefighters are concerned that some of their newest members may lose their jobs in the next round of city budget cuts.

19 firefighters were in the last academy class.  Union President Lt. Mike Smaldino says he understands the situation, but fears layoffs will affect response times, safety and efficiency for the fire department.  Smaldino has met several times with the newest firefighters leading up to cuts expected by the City Council January 26 and 27.

"There isn't a while lot we can cut," Smaldino explains.  "We haven't been in this position. There's a lot of nervous firefighters out there, and I can't blame them right now."

Meanwhile, outside City Hall Friday afternoon, seven people carried signs in a two-hour demonstration to protest the looming cutbacks.  The participants want to save recreational leagues and other programs which could be eliminated from the Parks & Recreation Department.

"I feel a little better," said organizer Colleen Noyes.  "At least now, it's out there--and the community is going to get very involved.  The more they know, the more the Council will have to at least listen."

Councilman Tom Gallagher watched the demonstrators briefly, and says he's sympathetic about their concerns.  He says he'll try to save youth programs, because he sees the value in doing so--but that adult programs likely will have to go.  Council members have said they'll make no decisions until they receive recommendations from the city manager.